Force feeding-Why or Why Not?

As I consider the ethical issues of eating disorders, the issue of force-feeding a patient is a valid question.  Is saving the patient a greater goal than informed consent?  What if the person with anorexia does not want to eat?  There are life threatening dangers in force-feeding, but the alternative may lead to death also.  Since most people with an eating disorder have a duel diagnosis of another psychological disorder, can we ignore the patients desire not to eat?  

There is value in every life.  I  believe the answer is that we must do what we can to save the life of the individual.  Force-feeding individuals who are malnourished have the risk of “re-feeding syndrome,”  where the individual’s cells cannot support the sudden influx of fluid and electrolytes.  Extreme care and attention to the type of medical intervention used must be taken.  Medical practitioners must carefully consider if the use of IV fluids or a feeding tube is more appropriate.  IV  fluids may be necessary if the digestive system is not functioning properly.

Studies show that most individuals with eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, do not want to die and do not have suicidal tendencies.  If force-feeding severely malnourished individuals with eating disorders saves lives and leads to getting the psychological help needed, I believe it is the ethical thing to do

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References

Persaud, R. (n.d.). Should Anorexics be force fed?. The Huffington Post UK. Retrieved September 21, 2014, from http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/dr-raj-persaud/should-anorexics-be-force_b_1608531.html

Bowcott, O. (n.d.). Anorexic woman should be fed against her wishes, judge rules. The Guardian. Retrieved September 18, 2014, from http://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/jun/15/anorexic-woman-fed-judge