Question

The spouse of a comatose client who has severe internal bleeding refuses to allow transfusions of whole blood because they are jehovah's witnesses. the client does not have a durable power of attorney for healthcare. what action should the nurse take?

Answer 1

The nurse should never force blood on the patient if the patient declines or is unable to decline. If the patient themselves is one of Jehovah's Witnesses DO NOT administer the blood transfusion. If the family is Jehovah's Witnesses ask them if the patient is one as well, so that you know for sure. Thank you for asking this question!

Answer 2

The nurse should respect what the clients wishes are and try to help them in any way she can. She can talk with the patient and her spouse to try and tell them the positives of accepting the blood, but she can not force them into anything against their religion.