The Practitioner
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After acute severe brain damage, many people are rendered unconscious or comatose for more than 24 hours. Although a significant number can still recover fully, some will not and a substantial minority remain unconscious for days, weeks or longer. These patients have a prolonged disorder of consciousness. ⋯ The family must be closely and fully involved from the outset. Families legally cannot, and should not be asked to, make decisions concerning healthcare, unless a family member is a legally appointed deputy or has been given power of attorney in relation to healthcare matters. Family members can, and should be asked to, give information about the patient's wishes, life choices etc as part of the best interests decision-making process, and they should be involved in best interests meetings.