Passive euthanasia refers to the practice of allowing a person to die by withholding or withdrawing medical treatment that is necessary to sustain life. This can include stopping life-support systems or not administering medications that would prolong life. The intention is not to hasten death but to respect the natural process of dying when recovery is deemed impossible. In many cases, passive euthanasia is considered when a patient is in a persistent vegetative state or has a terminal illness. Decisions about passive euthanasia often involve discussions among healthcare providers, the patient (if possible), and family members, focusing on the patient's wishes and quality of life.