What is meant by artificial nutrition and hydration?

Artificial nutrition and hydration refers to the use of medical techniques to administratively provide food and fluids to individuals who are unable to consume them through normal oral intake due to various medical conditions. This practice typically involves methods such as intravenous feeding (IV) or feeding tubes, which ensure that patients receive the necessary nutrients and hydration when they cannot do so independently.

This practice is crucial for patients who may be critically ill, recovering from surgery, or suffering from conditions that impair their ability to eat or drink adequately. Utilizing artificial nutrition and hydration can help maintain health, support healing, and improve quality of life in these situations, making it distinctly different from standard eating methods or diet supplements.