CME: Dehydration and Artificial Hydration for Terminally Ill Patients

CME: Dehydration and Artificial Hydration for Terminally Ill Patients Abstract. Parenteral hydration in dying patients is a controversial therapy and leads to different attitudes in caregivers as well as in relatives. A reduced liquid intake should be understood as part of the natural dying process. An artificial hydration can lead to adverse effects in some situations, but also to a benefit in others. Nevertheless, there are indications that justify artificial hydration and others that rather forbid it. In case of uncertainty about hydration, there is the option for a limited trial of therapy. Subcutaneous application is the preferred way of hydration.