Withholding or Withdrawing Nutritional Support at the End-of-Life in Six European Countries

In patients nearing death, decisions to withhold or withdraw potentially life-prolonging treatments are frequently made (Bilsen et al. 2009; Seale 2006; van der Heide et al. 2003; van der Heide et al. 2007). Treatments may include high-technology interventions such as dialysis or surgery, but may also concern more basic treatments like the artišcial administration of nutrition or hydration (ANH) (Bosshard et al. 2005).