A patient who is a Jehovah's Witness has severe gastrointestinal bleeding and a dangerously low hemoglobin level. The patient is fully alert and competent and refuses to accept the blood transfusion ordered by the physician. Which action by the nurse is m
a. Obtain a court order to give the blood.
b. Administer the blood while the patient is sleeping.
c. Have the patient's spouse sign the consent to have the blood administered.
d. Ensure the patient understands possible consequences and then respect the patient's wishes.
ANS: D
D. Patients' beliefs should be respected, even when their decisions go against medical advice. The patient needs to understand the consequences of his decision. A. B. C. Administering the blood without the patient's knowledge or consent is unethical.
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