Ethical Concerns in a Long‐Term Tube Feeding Study

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Abstract
Five ethical concerns about decision-making in relation to tube feeding were determined through secondary analysis of findings from a chart review study examining long-term tube feeding practices. The five ethical concerns are: (1) who should make the decision to tube feed? (2) how should tube feeding decisions be made? (3) what are valid reasons for initiating and continuing tube feeding? (4) is it permissible to withdraw tube feeding once it is initiated? and (5) is tube feeding an effective and appropriate life supporting technology? Ethical concerns are described, using examples from research data. Implications for health care follow.

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