Definition

A form of nutrition that is given as liquids, including liquid foods, through a tube inserted into a vein, under the skin, or into the stomach or small intestine. Artificial nutrition and hydration is given when a person is not able to eat or drink by mouth or has a disease or condition that affects their ability to absorb nutrients through the digestive system. For people near death, it does not help prolong life and is usually not given because it can cause severe problems, such as infection, aspiration (the breathing in of fluid or food into the lungs), diarrhea, and cramping. Also called ANH.