Neurobiology, Suffering and Unconscious Brain States

Commentary: neurobiology, suffering, and unconscious brain states

N.D. Schiff

Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 17, 303-304 (1999)

Abstract

The case presented illustrates ambiguities concerning the state of consciousness and the management of patients with catastrophic brain injuries. The ethical problem presented centers on the administration of a morphine infusion in the hope of achieving an appearance of lessened "distress" in a comatose patient who exhibits an increased respiratory rate drive as the result of primary neurologic and metabolic causes. The house officer identifies difficulties in providing a mechanistic account of the possible level of awareness in the patient and the possiblity of pain and suffering


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