Question

A 68-year-old man with severe COPD, advanced heart failure and frailty is thought to be entering the last days of life. He is drowsy with minimal oral intake. The family ask whether he must continue intravenous fluids. According to NICE guidance on care of dying adults, what is the most appropriate approach?

Accepted Answer

Assess hydration status, discuss risks and benefits with the patient and those important to him, and individualise the decision

Answer

Continue high-volume intravenous fluids regardless of symptoms

Answer

Stop all fluids immediately without assessment

Answer

Insert a nasogastric tube for enteral feeding

Answer

Refer automatically to intensive care for total parenteral nutrition

Practice question