Withholding and Withdrawing Artificial Nutrition and Hydration: An Ethical Dilemma

Abstract

Advances in technology have created and led to many ethical dilemmas within health care delivery. Due to these advances, ambulatory care nurses must be prepared to promote open communication with patients, families, and caregivers in facing life decisions. Familiarity with current literature on the issue of withholding/withdrawal artificial nutrition and hydration, staff development, and educational programs are methods ambulatory care nurses can utilize to promote comprehensive health care planning for older adults.