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Purposful dehydration in a terminally ill cancer patient
1School of Health Science, University of Wales, Swansea.
Abstract:
The management of terminally ill patients who are unable to maintain their own hydration, or who express a wish to discontinue artificial hydration, is a significant controversial topic among healthcare professionals, patients and families. Evidence-based research suggests a number of medical and nursing indications and contraindications for dehydration. The purpose of this article is to review the current research, consider the factors involved in decision-making and clarify the complex issues which have implications for nursing surrounding the management of dehydration in terminally ill patients. The article uses the case of a patient nursed by the author and is written as a reflective account of practice.
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