A Patient Who Is a Jehovah's Witness Is Scheduled for Routine

question 10

Multiple Choice

A patient who is a Jehovah's Witness is scheduled for routine surgery and expresses concern about the possibility of receiving blood products,an act condemned by the patient's religion.What is the nurse's best response?

• A) "You should allow the health care professionals to do whatever is needed to save your life."
• B) "Transfusions are not routine and now there are good alternatives to transfusions if you should lose an excessive amount of blood."
• C) "If you are worried about contamination, the blood supply in this country is tested thoroughly and is the safest in the world."
• D) "I will have the hospital chaplain come and explain to you that the Bible says there really is nothing unacceptable about a blood transfusion."

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Definitions:

Basic Mistrust

A term associated with Erik Erikson's stages of psychosocial development, referring to the first stage where infants learn whether or not they can trust the world based on their needs being met.

Basic Trust

A fundamental sense of trust in the world and others, often developed during infancy, that is seen as the foundation of healthy psychological development.

Responsive

Showing a positive and quick reaction to something, either emotionally or by taking action.

Sensitive

Easily affected by external conditions or stimuli.