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01-09-2011 | Health Policy

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

Authors: Howard Brody, MD, PhD, Laura D. Hermer, JD, LLM, Larry D. Scott, MD, MA, L. Lee Grumbles, MD, Julie E. Kutac, MA, Susan D. McCammon, MD

Published in: Journal of General Internal Medicine | Issue 9/2011

Abstract

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.

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Title: Artificial Nutrition and Hydration: The Evolution of Ethics, Evidence, and Policy
Authors: Howard Brody, MD, PhD
Laura D. Hermer, JD, LLM
Larry D. Scott, MD, MA
L. Lee Grumbles, MD
Julie E. Kutac, MA
Susan D. McCammon, MD
Publication date: 01-09-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Journal of General Internal Medicine / Issue 9/2011
Print ISSN: 0884-8734
Electronic ISSN: 1525-1497
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-011-1659-z

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