Question

A patient tells his healthcare provider that he is a jehovah witness. what action should be displayed by the healthcare provider to show support for his spirtual beliefs

Answer 1

Do not administer blood. Confirm their religious beliefs by asking family members and checking to see if they carry the NO BLOOD card with them. This card is approved to provide legal argument cases against the hospital and the blood administer. Also if the patient is an extended stay and holidays roll around the corner, do not give them activities and decor that are holiday themed. This will be showing consideration to them and they will greatly appreciate it.

Answer 2

The nurse should be aware that Jehovah's Witnesses do not accept blood and blood products, because they strongly believe in not ingesting blood in any form. A patient's beliefs and principles of life should be honored and the patient should be allowed to decide if he or she wants a transfusion or not. Making a decision on behalf of the patient that is against the patient's life principles or religious practices may significantly affect his or her spiritual well-being and purpose of life. The patient's family may be consulted, but the patient should be allowed to participate in decision making. No blood components, not even red blood cells, are accepted by Jehovah's Witnesses.