During the session, the ethical challenges faced by healthcare professionals in making decisions about these crucial aspects of palliative care were discussed.
On August 29, 2024, the BINCA interest group (Anáhuac Clinical Bioethics and Neuroethics) held its monthly session titled "Nutritional and Hydration Care in Terminal Patients: A Bioethical Approach in the Final Days of Life." The event featured the participation of Dr. Alfredo Covarrubias, who has an impeccable background and extensive experience in terminal patient care.
During the session, the ethical challenges faced by healthcare professionals in making decisions about these crucial aspects of palliative care were discussed. The talk highlighted the importance of respecting the dignity of the patient, as well as considering both bioethical principles and individual preferences in decision-making. Additionally, a medical and nutritional analysis was conducted on the importance of making appropriate decisions within a multidisciplinary team.
Students and faculty participated in the session, showing deep interest in the topic. The session was divided into two parts: in the first, Dr. Covarrubias provided a comprehensive overview of the current situation regarding the implementation of measures related to terminal patient care. His presentation covered topics such as nutritional and hydration care for terminal patients, the scientific evidence supporting decision-making in this area, the importance of a multidisciplinary team in end-of-life care, and the fundamental bioethical principles that guide this complex decision-making process.
In the second part, a Q&A session was held with the panelist, where participants expressed their concerns. This exchange fostered a more enriching discussion on the topic, leaving the door open for future analysis and revealing various opportunities for continued exploration of these issues.
Dr. Alfredo Covarrubias is a Surgeon specialized in Anesthesiology with a subspecialty in Pain Medicine, a graduate in Palliative Medicine and Pain Management Intervention. He is also pursuing a Master's in Palliative Medicine, holds a degree in Applied Nutrition, and is a group fitness instructor specializing in sports conditioning.
It is worth noting that the BINCA group has had academic functions for interdisciplinary discussion and research since October 2014. It is affiliated with the Interdisciplinary Clinical Bioethics Project, which includes the faculties of Bioethics, Health Sciences, Education and Humanities, and Psychology at our Anáhuac University Mexico. Furthermore, it is comprised of students, professors, and researchers from any field, focusing on the study of neuroscience and bioethics from psychological, medical, neurological, and legal perspectives.
You can see the full session here:
More information:
Centro Anáhuac de Desarrollo Estratégico en Bioética (CADEBI)
Dr. David Cerdio Domínguez
david.cerdio@anahuac.mx
