ABSTRACT
Clinical evidence suggests that the risks and harms caused by enteral feeding may outweigh its benefits, especially in terminally ill conditions. However, the feeding decision remains difficult as it intertwines with the socio-cultural context. Feeding carries symbolic meanings of nurturing and compassion in the culture. Family members commonly perceive a strong filial obligation to provide their loved ones with the feeling of satiety. Health professionals generally understand the risks and harms of enteral feeding and are unwilling to receive it personally. Still, enteral feeding remains as a common care procedure in current healthcare practice. The discordance between practice and personal values of health professionals highlights the complexity in determining the patient's best interests. Given that the feeding decision involves a benefit-risk balance, increasing awareness has been focused on the importance of thorough communication with the patients regarding their care wishes.
