Ethical issues in clinical practiceFeeding and hydration in terminal stage patients

The aim of this paper is to present and discuss some recent publications and consensus documents about feeding and hydration in terminal stage patients. First part includes a review since the framework of bioethical problems where these topics may be included. Next point is focussed on a short presentation of some evidences base clinical trials. Finally, in the last part, it is offered information about the most relevant guidelines and consensus documents published along last years. As conclusion, we see that evidence base informing clinical decision-making about artificial hydration in the dying patient is sparse and solutions must be adopted on individual basis. Mental capacity of the patient is one of the most important pillars to take into account. It is important, also, to have good information about the most frequent doubts that patients and relatives may set up.