Ethical perspectives on Jehovah’s Witnesses’ refusal of blood

ABSTRACT

When Jehovah’s Witnesses refuse blood, they regularly ask their physicians to explore and provide all other medically and scientifically based alternatives, even when these alternatives may not be as effective and may carry risk of failure that could lead to physical disabilities or death. An awareness of the values at stake and of other cases from personal experience and the literature can help physicians, patients, and their families to move toward ethically responsible decisions and actions.