15th March 2022

You are working in a hospice, and are looking after a patient in the final stages of life

You are working in a hospice, and are looking after a patient in the final stages of life with end-stage gastric cancer, who likely has only “short weeks” to live. Over the past couple of days it has been noted by the nursing team that they are scarcely eating or drinking – only taking a few sips of water when actively encouraged to.

On ward round the issue is discussed – the patient denies any symptoms such as nausea, constipation, dry mouth, or pain, which may be affecting their oral intake, and instead tells you that they “just aren’t that fussed” anymore about eating and drinking. A joint decision is made that the patient will be offered food and drink, but their refusal will be respected. The patient understands that this may hasten their death, and tells you they are accepting of this.

Later, the patient’s daughter approaches you and asks why their father is no longer being provided with food and drink – and whether you could “give them fluids through a drip” instead.

Which of the following statements about this case is correct?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.