Question

A 28-year-old Jehovah’s Witness presents with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy and haemorrhagic shock. She is fully alert and repeatedly refuses blood transfusion, explaining her beliefs clearly and consistently. Without blood she is likely to die. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Respect her decision and manage surgically without transfusion where possible

Answer

Seek consent from her husband to give blood

Answer

Apply to the court to authorise a blood transfusion

Answer

Give blood transfusion immediately because the situation is life-threatening

Answer

Detain her under the Mental Health Act and transfuse blood

Practice question

A 28-year-old Jehovah’s Witness presents with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy and haemorrhagic shock. She is fully alert and repeatedly refuses blood transfusion, explaining her beliefs clearly and consistently. Without blood she is likely to die. What is the most appropriate action?