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Refusal of blood products — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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HardAdolescent health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child health, ethicsRefusal of blood productsRACP Paediatrics

A 13-year-old with severe anaemia from trauma needs urgent transfusion. He and his parents refuse blood products for religious reasons; clinicians believe delay risks death. The young person understands some issues but is frightened and intermittently confused from shock. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: A — Seek urgent legal or child protection authority while providing lifesaving care as required

When refusal places a child at imminent risk of death, clinicians must act in the child's best interests while urgently involving hospital legal, ethics or child protection pathways. The adolescent's impaired state makes mature minor status doubtful in this scenario. Transparent documentation and senior involvement are essential.

Reference: RACP Ethics guidance; Australian child protection and consent guidance