Yes, an obvious difference is that providing artificial nutrition and hydration requires technical skill.

In fact, because of side effects, artificial nutrition and hydration may actually contribute to the dying patient's discomfort.

Patients are best able to make decisions if they are well informed about the possible risks and benefits of artificial nutrition.

The rationale for providing artificial nutrition at the very end of life is less clear.

His body was being kept alive by artificial nutrition, hydration and excellent nursing.

If the goal is to keep the patient alive, then artificial nutrition and hydration may be essential treatment.

Legally, artificial nutrition and hydration is considered a medical treatment that may be refused at the end of life.

But in some states individuals are required to state specifically whether or not they would want artificial nutrition and hydration at the end of life.

They also have written guidelines governing issues such as when to stop artificial nutrition and hydration.

Optimizing the delivery of artificial nutrition to sick patients unable to sustain themselves.