To hydrate or not to hydrate?

Article Abstract:

The introduction of a clear UK national policy on rehydration of dying patients would be helpful to nurses who often have to make the difficult decision themselves on the best course of treatment for a patient. There is little evidence to prove rehydration improves comfort levels of a dying patient, although there is mounting evidence to indicate patients left to dehydrate naturally are in a more comfortable state when dying. Nurses need to be able to follow guidelines on such a difficult and emotive subject.

Palliative treatment, Palliative care, Fluid therapy

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So where's the evidence?

Article Abstract:

Nurses in the UK introducing the concept of evidence-based practice should exercise caution, as nursing is a difficult area in which to introduce this practice. However, investigations support its effectiveness in patient care. The concept of basing nursing practice on research findings may be difficult for a number of reasons including the problem of assessing the research and the nursing practices, the position of the nurse in the power structure, and the range of variables in individual patients.

Evidence-based nursing

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Approaches to spiritual care

Article Abstract:

Spiritual care of patients is difficult to quantify with rational explanation, although its importance is being increasingly recognised. Interest in the spiritual care of the terminally ill is growing, with particular emphasis on the need for honesty and reflection by those patients confronting their own mortality. Nursing staff should also confront their own spiritual needs in order to be better prepared to help their patients.

Health aspects, Spirituality

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