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Refusal of blood products — DRCOG MCQ

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HardEthicsRefusal of blood productsDRCOG

At 30 weeks, a woman with placenta praevia and iron-deficiency anaemia has capacity and refuses donor blood for religious reasons after understanding the risk of fatal haemorrhage. What is the best antenatal response?

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Correct answer: E — Respect refusal, optimise haemoglobin and document a coordinated birth plan

The best answer is “Respect refusal, optimise haemoglobin and document a coordinated birth plan”. A capacitous adult may refuse blood even when refusal carries serious or fatal risk. The team should ensure the decision is informed and voluntary, document its scope, optimise reversible anaemia and plan delivery with senior obstetric, anaesthetic, haematology and blood-conservation input while clarifying acceptable products and procedures. Neither pregnancy nor partner preference removes her authority.

Reference: GMC: Decision making and consent: https://www.gmc-uk.org/ethical-guidance/ethical-guidance-for-doctors/decision-making-and-consent