Miriam J Gent, Sarah Fradsham, Graham M
Whyte, Catriona R Mayland
The aim of the review is to describe the attitudes and knowledge
of patients, families, healthcare professionals and the general public
regarding clinically assisted hydration (CAH) in the care of dying patients. Developing international evidence
suggests that cultural norms and ethical principles of a family, population or
healthcare environment influence attitudes towards CAH, particularly where CAH
has symbolic meaning; representing care, hope and trust. However, there is
surprisingly little robust evidence regarding dying patients, or the wider
general public's views, on the perceived value of CAH in the last days and
hours of life.
Available in print in Arthur Rank Hospice Library, Brookfields Hospital