[Dysphagia] End of Life

[shs-slp at worldnet.att.net (Stacy H. Simon)]

I am dealing with a difficult situation at one of my LTC facilities and was hoping I could get some insight from this forum.

I have a patient who is end stage dementia, unable to follow directions, no ability to protect her airway and most importantly has forgotten  what to do with food.

The POA has determined no peg or IV,and no food or meds have been consumed in days.  

This is my question, how do you educate the nursing staff and CNA's that "forcing" putting food in her mouth at this stage can be more detrimental than good.  That it is only making them feel better and can possible hurt the patient.  

Thank you,
Stacey Simon