Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust v Mrs C [2022] EWCOP 28

Weaning from ventilation Mrs C was in a prolonged disorder of consciousness (it was not necessary to determine whether a minimally conscious state or a chronic vegetative state). An independent doctor, supported by the family, argued for a further attempt to wean her from ventilation despite the very small prospect of success. The trust argued that extubation followed by palliative care was in her best interests, and that continued ventilation would be unethical and not a clinically available option, but agreed to pursue the weaning plan if the court authorised that. The judge concluded that Mrs C would wish to put her life in God's hands and fight for life (and for breath) as long as possible, so weaning was in her best interests, though any longer than 14 days would be unethical.