Artificial Nutrition and Hydration: The Evolution of Ethics, Evidence, and Policy

作者：Brody Howard^*; Hermer Laura D; Scott Larry D; Grumbles L Lee; Kutac Julie E; McCammon Susan D

来源：Journal of General Internal Medicine, 2011, 26(9): 1053-1058.

DOI：10.1007/s11606-011-1659-z

• artificial nutrition and hydration
• ethics
• palliative care
• terminal care
• health policy

INTRODUCTION: The debate over use of artificial nutrition and hydration (ANH) in terminal illness, including advanced dementia, remains contentious despite extensive ethical and empirical investigation.
METHODS: For this narrative review we undertook a focused, selective review of literature reflecting ethical analysis, empirical assessment of outcomes, legal responses, and thinking within the Roman Catholic religious tradition.
RESULTS: The history of the debate over the past 60 years results from a complex interplay of ethical concerns, a growing empirical database, legal changes, public opinion, and financial as well as institutional concerns. Discussions of ANH today are often conducted without any understanding of this historical context.
DISCUSSION: Patients' interests could be better protected through remedial action at both the individual and the policy levels.

• 出版日期2011-9
• 单位河北医科大学