Question

A 79-year-old woman with advanced heart failure and chronic kidney disease is thought to be in the last days of life. She is drowsy and taking little orally. Her family asks about giving intravenous fluids to "build her up". According to NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate approach?

Accepted Answer

Assess individually, discussing risks and benefits of clinically assisted hydration with the patient (if possible) and family

Answer

Always give intravenous fluids to prolong life

Answer

Never give fluids at the end of life

Answer

Give high-volume fluids routinely

Answer

Ask the family to decide without clinical input

Practice question

A 79-year-old woman with advanced heart failure and chronic kidney disease is thought to be in the last days of life. She is drowsy and taking little orally. Her family asks about giving intravenous fluids to "build her up". According to NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate approach?