ABSTRACT
As the patient becomes weaker and enters the terminal phase of their illness, they will drink less for a variety of reasons. Eating and drinking are basic functions that therapists perform every day, and which are essential for life. The family may be feeling very anxious about the patient's lack of fluid intake, and this must be remembered, and they should be made aware of how the decision is made as to whether or not to offer intravenous hydration. The relatives will always obviously want the patient to die peacefully. They will benefit from being made aware of these considerations if it is deemed that an intravenous infusion is not in the best interests of the patient. The main reasons given for continuing hydration in the terminally ill are professional opinion, family opinion and personal views. The symptom most commonly reported in conscious patients who are clinically dehydrated is a dry mouth.
