SAN ANTONIO: A number of health experts, instead of just one doctor, should be involved in decisions regarding end-of-life care for patients, say proposed new guidelines.
The advisory also addresses concerns that fluids were being withheld and now suggests that people in their last days of life should be encouraged to drink if they wish to and can.
Hydration can be reduced or stopped if there is any sign of harm or no sign of benefit.
The guidelines will also help doctors and nurses identify the last days better and place the person and his family at the core of the decisions.
The guidelines meant for patients, relatives, hospitals, hospices and others involved in end-of-life care are open for public review until 9 September, 2015…