To Tube Feed or Not

Jennie is a 79-year-old woman who had suffered from hypertension, diabetes and many strokes. She had an advance directive, which indicated that she did not desire any surgery, antibiotics, resuscitation or tube feeding. When it becomes very difficult for her to eat, requiring an aide for a couple of hours each meal, her daughter decides that it is appropriate for a feeding tube to be placed as Jennie does not have a fatal illness, just simply requires adequate nutrition.

• Would you insert the feeding tube?
• Why or Why Not?

Apply Theory (Specific Professional Healthcare Competencies + Clinical Medical Ethical Principles) to Practice in order to provide Optimal Patient-Centered Care (OPCC)