[Terminal phase hydration, pain and delirium]

(Vaeskebehandling, smerter og delir i terminalfasen.)

Full Abstract

Hydration of the terminal patient may relieve confusion and complaints of "dry mouth". But it may worsen oedema of the brain, lungs, and extremities, worsen terminal rattling and cause a need for frequent changing of diapers. The decision of whether and how to treat a dying patient with fluids should therefore be an integral part of the terminal treatment plan. Such plans should be discussed with the patient and the relatives, and it will very likely need to be revised as the condition worsens.

Author information

Author/s: Heick, Alex (A);

Affiliation: Apopleksiklinikken, Frederiksberg Hospital, DK-2000 Frederiksberg. alexheick(-atsign-)dadlnet.dk

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: English Abstract; Journal Article

Journal: Ugeskrift for laeger (Ugeskr Laeger), published in Denmark. (Language: dan)

Reference: 2009-Sep; vol 171 (issue 38) : pp 2738-41

Dates: Created 2009/09/17; Completed 2009/09/25;

PMID: 19758497, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 9/25/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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