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Published on: November 9, 2016
Patients' and relatives' perceptions about intravenous and subcutaneous hydration
Sebastiano Mercadante1, Patrizia Ferrera, Davide Girelli
1Pain Relief and Palliative Care, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
|November 1, 2005
Summary
Patient and family preferences are crucial in palliative care hydration decisions. Most patients and families favor intravenous hydration, viewing it as beneficial and psychologically positive.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care Medicine
- Clinical Nutrition
- Patient-Centered Care
Background:
- Hydration in palliative care is controversial, often based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific data.
- Clinical decisions regarding hydration are complex, highlighting the importance of patient and family preferences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate patient and family perceptions of hydration therapy in palliative care.
- To compare patient and family views on intravenous versus subcutaneous hydration routes.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was administered to 54 patients in an acute pain relief and palliative care unit requiring hydration.
- Principal family carers were also surveyed using similar questions to assess their perceptions.
Main Results:
- Patients and families generally agreed, viewing hydration as a beneficial medical treatment providing nutrition.
- Intravenous hydration was perceived as improving clinical condition, offering psychological benefits, and being an acceptable burden.
- Subcutaneous hydration was considered less effective and not less bothersome than the intravenous route.
Conclusions:
- Perceived benefits of artificial hydration by patients and families are central to ethical, emotional, and cultural decision-making.
- Most surveyed patients and relatives accepted and favored intravenous hydration.
- Patient and family preferences should guide hydration decisions in palliative care settings.
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