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Refusal of blood transfusion — MRCPCH FOP MCQ

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HardEthics, consent and communicationRefusal of blood transfusionMRCPCH FOP

A 13-year-old boy with acute leukaemia has life-threatening anaemia and needs urgent transfusion. His parents refuse for religious reasons, while he is drowsy and unable to weigh information. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Seek urgent legal and safeguarding support while giving emergency life-saving care if needed

When refusal of treatment places a child at risk of death, clinicians should seek urgent legal and safeguarding support and may provide emergency life-saving treatment when necessary. Parental responsibility does not permit decisions that are likely to cause serious harm. The child currently lacks capacity to make an informed refusal. The pearl is to involve senior, legal and ethics support early but not to let process delay emergency stabilisation.

Reference: GMC 0-18 years guidance; Children Act principles