Question

A 16-year-old involved in a motor vehicle accident is brought via ambulance to the emergency room you work at. she needs an emergency blood transfusion. her mother, a devout jehovah's witness, refuses to give permission for her daughter to receive blood products because it goes against her faith.

Answer 1

The rejection of blood transfusions due to their religious believes can cause an ethical dilemma. The physician's duty is to try to discuss with patients about this subject, but still be respectful. The physician should provide optimal treatments such as use of prohaemostatic agents and interventions to reduce blood loss and hence, reduce the risk of subsequent need for blood transfusion.