Artificial Nutrition and Hydration and the Permanently Unconscious Patient David C. Steffens A critical component of our

A critical component of our system of checks and balances

where possible

and cultural understanding

one question is foremost in the minds of the public: "What can be done to prevent this from happening again

and often poorly understood

Artificial Nutrition and Hydration and the Permanently Unconscious Patient David C. Steffens A critical component of ourDuring the past few decades, high profile cases like that of Terry Schiavo have fueled the public debate over forgoing or withdrawing artificial nutrition and hydration from patients in a persistent vegetative state (PVS). These cases, whether involving adults or young children, have forced many to begin thinking in a measured and careful way about the moral legitimacy of allowing patients to die. Can families forgo or withdraw artificial hydration