Hassan Hashmi, Chair, Department of Surgery at Desert View Hospital, shared on LinkedIn:
“An important update with implications for surgical and perioperative care:
Jehovah’s Witnesses have announced that accepting red cells, white cells, plasma, or platelets from another person’s blood is now a matter of individual conscience. Their position on whole-blood transfusion remains unchanged.
For those involved in surgical care, this development highlights the importance of individualized conversations. Patients who identify as Jehovah’s Witnesses may have different preferences regarding each blood component, and previously documented choices may not necessarily reflect their current wishes.
Thoughtful discussion and clear documentation help ensure that each patient’s informed preferences are understood and respected.”
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