Peter, a 25 -year-old man, sustained a major head injury in a car accident 10 years ago. He is presently in a long-term care facility. Peter cannot communicate in any way, requires total care, and is incontinent of urine and stool. He is likely in a persistent vegetative state, and the team thinks his prognosis is hopeless. He has a gastrostomy tube and receives regular feedings.

Peter's parents believe that their son would not wish to be maintained in this way and have requested that the feeding tube be removed. They have made this request several times in past years. However, the hospital's policy does not allow discontinuation of feeding through tubes. As tubes are replaced at regular intervals, Peter's family is now asking that their son's tube not be replaced in the event that it accidentally falls out.

Questions

1.What are your views on this hospital's policy regarding withdrawal of treatment?

2. What 2 main ethical principles conflict with this situation? 3.As a nurse, how would you support this family? 4.Do you agree with the family's plan?