Prolonged Disorders of Consciousness (PDOC) include conditions like the Vegetative State (VS) and Minimally Conscious State (MCS) that last over four weeks. This research evaluates a tool called MuSICCA, a children's version of the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC). It aims to determine if MuSICCA is valid (accurate), reliable, and useful in clinical settings. MATADOC has been successful for adults, but there's no equivalent for kids. Misdiagnosing can lead to inadequate care, wrong treatments, and difficult decisions about stopping care. The study targets children aged 2-18 suspected of having PDOC. Parental consent is needed. Over three years, up to seven assessment sessions per child will occur. Sessions involve musical stimuli (sounds, sights, touch) and recording responses. This helps in diagnosis and treatment. The study aims to recruit 80 participants across the UK, Ireland, and other English-speaking countries.

• Participation is voluntary, and families can withdraw anytime without affecting care.
• Sessions might be recorded, and data will be stored securely.
• Independent statisticians will analyze the data to avoid bias.