Why It Is Ethical For Jehovah
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School
Nova Southeastern University *
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Course
3180H
Subject
Medicine
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by DrCrab1057
Why It Is Ethical For Jehovah's Witnesses To Refuse Blood
Introduction
Jehovah's Witnesses refuse blood transfusions because it is against their
religious beliefs.
Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the Bible prohibits the ingestion of blood,
including blood transfusions.
But when it comes to a medical emergency, it
represents an issue of whether or not is ethical to deny a blood transfusion.
they view blood transfusions as an unacceptable medical intervention and
choose to refuse them, even if it means risking their own lives.
receiving a blood transfusion is not only a medical decision but also a
religious one.
MY ARGUMENT
I think it is ethical to respect Jehovah's Witnesses decision of refusing blood
because in that way healthcare providers acknowledge their autonomy and
religious freedom
Major Point
So, first
autonomy which includes the right to religious freedom and informed
consent and cultural competence because
Patients should have the freedom to
decline medical treatment even if it contradicts the advice of the healthcare
professional, so long as they are of good judgment and are aware of the
advantages and disadvantages
of
their
choice
The fundamental right to freedom of religion would be violated if Jehovah's
Witnesses were forced to receive blood transfusions in opposition to their
religious views. A person's ability to practice their religion freely and without
impediment from the government or other people is protected by the right to
freedom of religion
Despite their religious views, some would say that Jehovah's Witnesses should
be forced to take blood transfusions in order to secure their survival. This
approach, however, disregards the value of informed consent and individual
autonomy in medical decision-making.
Cultural competence is the ability to understand and work with people from
diverse cultures
Healthcare practitioners must comprehend Jehovah's
Witnesses' religious convictions and collaborate with them to identify
alternative therapies that do not contradict their beliefs.
Second Alternative Treatments
medical professionals can explore alternative treatments that align with the
religious beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses. For example, in the case of anemia,
“patients can be treated with erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the
production of red blood cells, or iron supplements, which can help replenish
iron stores needed for the formation of red blood cells”. Or blood substitutes
like perfluorocarbons or hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers can be used to
transport oxygen throughout the body, which is the primary function of red
blood cells (Ball and Winstead). While blood transfusions are commonly used
to treat a variety of medical disorders, they are not always the
best or only option
Third Utilitarianism
The ethical theory of utilitarianism aims to maximize overall happiness or
well-being for the largest number of individuals. According to this approach, it
would be ethical to respect the wishes of Jehovah's Witnesses because doing
so would result in greater overall happiness. For example, while a blood
transfusion may save the life of the individual in question, it could also cause
them great distress and harm if it violates their religious beliefs. By promoting
religious freedom and respecting the autonomy of individuals, society can
create a more tolerant and accepting environment for people of all beliefs and
backgrounds.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, healthcare personnel must respect the religious views and
autonomy of Jehovah's Witnesses who refuse blood transfusions, even in life-
threatening situations because patients have the right to make decisions that
are consistent with their religious beliefs. Respect for autonomy and
cultural/religious values are significant ethical concepts that must be balanced
with the role of the healthcare professional to prioritize the patient's health and
safety.
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