The use of artificial nutrition at the end-of-life: a cross-sectional survey exploring the beliefs and decision-making among physicians and nurses.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The use of artificial nutrition in the last month of life raises many concerns for patients, relatives, and healthcare professionals.

Aim

To describe physicians and nurses' beliefs, knowledge, and decision-making related to introducing and withdrawing artificial nutrition at the end-of-life. Physicians and nurses' factors affecting these decisions were examined.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2022. A questionnaire was sent by email to physicians and nurses.

Setting and participants

Physicians and nurses working in internal medicine, oncology, and palliative medicine divisions in three Swiss University Hospitals.

Results

Two hundred and thirty physicians and nurses completed the survey (21% response rate). Mos

SUBMITTER: Pala C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11914226 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature