In a shocking incident in Miami, Florida, a nurse practitioner has been arrested after allegedly removing her mother’s breathing tube in a hospital intensive care unit, leading to the mother’s death. The nurse reportedly said, “I’m pulling out” just before removing the life-saving device. This tragic event has raised serious legal and ethical questions about end-of-life care and medical authority.
The Incident
On May 5, 2025, Juansette Sabrina Green’s mother was admitted to North Shore Medical Center in Miami due to severe respiratory distress. Her condition quickly worsened, requiring intubation and placement on a ventilator in the intensive care unit (ICU).
After 11 days in critical condition, on May 17, Green contacted her family, urging her children to come to the hospital as their grandmother’s health was rapidly declining. Upon their arrival, according to police reports, Green told hospital staff, “I’m pulling out,” and proceeded to remove the breathing tube that was keeping her mother alive.
Medical alarms sounded immediately, and hospital staff rushed to the scene to resuscitate the patient. However, Green reportedly instructed the staff to stop their efforts, stating she wanted her mother to “go in peace.” Shortly after, her mother was pronounced dead.
Legal Action and Charges
Following the incident, Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s deputies located Green at her residence and arrested her on charges of aggravated manslaughter of an elderly or disabled adult. She is currently held without bond at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and has pleaded not guilty.
A judge found probable cause for the arrest, and the case is moving forward through the criminal justice system. Prosecutors are investigating whether Green’s actions directly caused the death and if any laws governing medical practice and patient care were violated.
Professional Background and Hospital Status
Juansette Sabrina Green has been a licensed nurse practitioner in Florida since 2005, with over 20 years of experience. However, she was not employed by North Shore Medical Center at the time of the incident, meaning she had no official authority to make medical decisions or withdraw life support for any patient in the hospital, including her mother.
This fact has been critical in framing the legal case against her, as Florida law requires that decisions regarding life support be made by authorized healthcare professionals or legal guardians through proper channels.
Ethical and Legal Implications
This case shines a light on the complex and sensitive nature of end-of-life decisions. In Florida, the withdrawal or withholding of life-sustaining treatment is governed by strict legal guidelines. Patients or their legal surrogates typically make such decisions after consulting with medical teams and ethics committees.
Removing a breathing tube without proper authorization, especially in a hospital setting, is considered unlawful and may constitute criminal behavior, as alleged in this case.
Experts note that while family members may wish to ease the suffering of a loved one, such actions must comply with legal and medical protocols to protect patient rights and ensure ethical standards.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread debate and divided opinion. Some members of the community express sympathy for Green, believing her actions were motivated by compassion to end her mother’s suffering. Others strongly condemn the act as a violation of medical ethics and criminal law.
As the investigation continues, the case may influence future policies and legal frameworks surrounding end-of-life care in Florida hospitals.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are reviewing hospital records, staff testimonies, and surveillance footage to establish a detailed timeline and understand the full circumstances surrounding the event. The Miami-Dade Police Department continues to work closely with the hospital administration.
Green’s legal team is expected to argue her intent and challenge the charges, but the outcome remains uncertain as the case unfolds in court.
Learn More About Florida Health Laws and Patient Rights
For detailed information about healthcare regulations and patient rights in Florida, please visit:
These resources provide official guidance on healthcare standards, patient protections, and legal requirements related to medical care in the state.