Then, based on the previous discussion, are there reasons to consider that suffering might be exacerbated by hydration or relieved by dehydration?
The benefits and burdens need to be carefully weighed following discussion with the patient (if conscious), the patient’s family and the entire health-care team. Moral Qualms: Because food and fluid have such powerful symbolic meaning, failing to provide them is often associated with the failure to offer nourishment to those who are hungry and to give fluids to those who are thirsty. These deep-seated beliefs and the ingrained custom of hydrating in critical care settings may exert a strong influence against the decision to allow a patient to become dehydrated. The nurse may help in such cases by proposing a trial reduction in fluid volume without complete elimination of infusion. As with all assessment, systematic observation and continual questioning should guide intervention. No intervention should be without a purpose and none should cause more harm than good. An additional reference is as follows: Deciding About Life’s End, A United Methodist Resource Book About Advance Directives
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