A 88-year-old man in a care home has advanced dementia and is now in the last days of life. He is unable to swallow and is no longer taking oral fluid...

Question

A 88-year-old man in a care home has advanced dementia and is now in the last days of life. He is unable to swallow and is no longer taking oral fluids. His family asks whether intravenous fluids should be given. He has no advance decision and no LPA. What is the MOST appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Explain that clinically assisted hydration is not routinely recommended in the last days of life as it may cause harm including fluid overload and respiratory secretions, and that good mouth care is the priority

Answer

Start intravenous fluids as it is a basic standard of care

Answer

Start subcutaneous fluids to prevent dehydration

Answer

Refer to the Court of Protection for a decision on hydration

Answer

Withhold all fluids and mouth care as death is imminent

uk-dgm MCQ (SBA): Clinically Assisted Hydration in Dying

A 88-year-old man in a care home has advanced dementia and is now in the last days of life. He is unable to swallow and is no longer taking oral fluids. His family asks whether intravenous fluids should be given. He has no advance decision and no LPA. What is the MOST appropriate response?