This section will look at a sequence of discussions between a patient’s family and the multidisciplinary team focussing on:
- Initial explanations to a family that there is a problem with swallowing and consider how to address their initial questions and concerns about treatment plans
- Initial team discussions about nasogastric (NG) feeding which reveals some uncertainty between members but a shared desire for a clear decision on whether active or supportive care is appropriate
- Team assessment of the perceived benefits from a trial of alternative nutrition and hydration or clinically assisted nutrition and hydration and considering how to deal with potential disagreements on future treatment plans
- Discussion with family which reveals conflict in opinion between family members about the risks and benefits of alternative nutrition and hydration or clinically assisted nutrition and hydration
- Responding to concerns expressed about hunger/thirst/choking
- Support to the family and nursing team on how to approach eating and drinking for comfort and good oral care
Page last reviewed: 16 Jan 2023
