The survival time of a vegetative patient depends mainly on the patient’s nutritional status and level of care. With a good level of care and reasonable nutritional supply, the patient can survive for as long as 20 years or even longer. Except for some instinctive neurological reflexes and the ability to metabolize substances and energy, vegetative patients have completely lost their cognitive ability, are unable to recognize themselves or their surroundings, do not interact with others, and do not respond meaningfully to stimuli. A persistent vegetative state is generally judged at least 1 year after traumatic brain injury and at least 3 months after non-traumatic illness. Due to being bedridden for a long time, vegetative patients are prone to some complications, such as pulmonary infections, urinary tract infections, decubitus ulcers, etc. These infectious complications can easily threaten the patient’s life, but if properly treated and cared for, they can survive for a long time. Vegetative patients should enhance nutrition and meticulous care to avoid complications such as decubitus ulcers and infections, and perform appropriate rehabilitation exercises and massage the limbs to avoid muscle contractures and promote recovery.