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What does artificial nourishment mean in a living will?

What does artificial nourishment mean in a living will?

Q: Can a living will withhold food and water?

Yes, a living will can specify whether to withhold food and water, including artificial nourishment. This allows individuals to express their wishes about receiving or refusing life-prolonging treatments, ensuring their preferences are respected during incapacitation.

Q: How long can a person survive without food and water hospice?

In a hospice setting, a person may survive without food and water for several days to weeks, depending on their health condition. Generally, the body can last longer without food than without water. Medical professionals can provide guidance based on individual circumstances.

Q: What is considered artificial nutrition?

Artificial nutrition refers to the delivery of nutrients through medical means when a person cannot consume food orally. This includes feeding via a tube inserted into the stomach or intestines or through intravenous methods. It is typically used in critical care or hospice situations.

Q: What is the main drawback of a living will?

The main drawback of a living will is that it may not cover all potential medical scenarios. If a situation arises that wasn't anticipated, healthcare providers might struggle to interpret the individual's wishes, potentially leading to unwanted treatments or decisions.

Full question:

What is considered 'artificial nourishment' in regard to a living will?

Category: Living Wills
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Colorado

Answer:

A living will is a document that allows a person to specify which medical treatments they do or do not want during a terminal illness. It takes effect when the patient is incapacitated and unable to express their wishes. The will outlines which treatments may be used or withheld to allow the patient to die naturally without artificial prolongation of life.

In Colorado, 'artificial nourishment' refers to nourishment provided through a tube inserted into the stomach or intestines or nutrients injected intravenously into the bloodstream (C.R.S. § 15-18-103(1.5)). A living will allows a person to decide whether to continue, withhold, or withdraw life-prolonging medical procedures, including artificial feeding and fluids.

Specifically, if only artificial nourishment is being provided, the declarant can specify whether it should be continued, withdrawn, or continued for a certain period (C.R.S. § 15-18-104(2.5)). This ensures that the individual's wishes regarding artificial nourishment are clearly stated and respected.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is an example of artificial nutrition and hydration?

An example of artificial nutrition is feeding a patient through a tube that delivers nutrients directly into the stomach or intestines. Artificial hydration may involve administering fluids intravenously. Both methods are used when a person cannot eat or drink on their own due to illness or incapacity.