Vegetative Patients may still be able to understand.. read.

[stonecoldtruth]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/5320234.stm

So, if the article holds true and that even patients in vegetative states still have the ability to understand and process, but not to respond, does that change the way we should respond medically?

I realize this is a political/medical/debate type question, but I just found it very interesting..

SCT

[Controlled Labs]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/5320234.stm

So, if the article holds true and that even patients in vegetative states still have the ability to understand and process, but not to respond, does that change the way we should respond medically?

I realize this is a political/medical/debate type question, but I just found it very interesting..

SCT

yes, this could have far reachng implications. also, you wont be able to "pull the plug"

[stonecoldtruth]

yes, this could have far reachng implications. also, you wont be able to "pull the plug"

That is exactly what I think, there is a direct coorelation with the # of patients on life support and the cost of healthcare. So I'm sure the issues of economics vs morals are going to be hitting the fans again shortly.

SCT

[Dr.Dave1]

I'm interested in what their criteria for a vegetative state are . . . I'm assuming it does not mean brain dead.
Personally I have no interest in being a permanent vegetable. That's why it pays to have a living will indicating your wishes and let your loved ones know.