An IV to maintain hydration can sometimes be very useful pallative care if someone has difficulty taking fluid orally and is not so far gone that they no longer need water.
On the other hand, I see no reason why a doctor should feel a need to be excessively proactive with such things. If a patient complains of dehydration, give water. But if a patient doesn't seem to be suffering from dehydration, don't force it. While I wouldn't accuse the doctor in your case of putting other people's interests before the patient's, it would seem like he needs to recognize that forcing people to do something they don't want can cause more discomfort than would their failure to do such action.
Ah, unfortunately time for me to go...I will just only say, this has turned into a very fine discussion, and I have enjoyed it immensely...see, we can have a variety of ideas, and differences of opinions, and yet still discuss them rationally and civilly...and remain respectful of each other...
And isnt this the goal of FR?...I hope to continue this discussion tomorrow, if time permits, and to all those who contributed and remained calm, I do thank everyone...
Until tomorrow, then..everyone have a very pleasant evening...