The nursing supervisor never said "she was talking and asking for things". Only that she could express discomfort and, because the nurses had been with her so long, be understood.
Just because someone doesn't talk doesn't mean they are worthless! Many Americans can't talk! let's just kill em all!
Terri did communicate and the Nurses knew her so well they could tell what her feelings were. And this from a person taht isn't suppose to have feelings!