Also see the separate article Coma. Previously, the term persistent vegetative state (PVS) was used to describe all patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness. PVS has become marked by ethical and medical dilemmas, often, if not always, requiring legal assistance.
Full Definition of AGENCY. 1. a: the office or function of an agent b: the relationship between a principal and that person's agent. 2. : the capacity, condition, or state of acting or of exerting power: operation.
One that acts or has the power or authority to act. 2. One empowered to act for or represent another: an author's agent; an insurance agent. 3. A means by which something is done or caused; an instrument. 4. A force or substance that causes a change: a chemical agent; an infectious agent.