Aging clinical and experimental research
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In many patients with dementia, the oral intake of fluids and nutrients becomes insufficient and a decision has to be made whether to start artificial nutrition or hydration (ANH). This study examines the incidence of ANH in nursing-home patients with dementia in The Netherlands, the methods of administration used, patient characteristics, and the characteristics of the ANH decision- making process. ⋯ Compared with the USA literature, ANH is practised less in The Netherlands. This practice conforms to the prevailing treatment policy endorsed by the Dutch Association of Nursing-Home Physicians. In starting nutrition and/or hydration, an agreement about the (limited) duration of ANH is generally made, and the NHPs generally involve relatives and nurses in the decision-making process. Almost always, all parties involved agreed with decisions taken.