Autonomía del paciente: Los testigos de Jehová y la elección de alternativas a la transfusión

Abstract

Today the medical, legal, bioethical, and pharmacological means exist to permit patients to choose from among wide and varied options for their medical care. Jehovah's Witnesses appreciate the hard work of physicians who have met the challenge of providing safe and effective treatment while respecting their autonomous rights. This includes the many obstetricians and gynecologists who have employed safe and effective transfusion-alternative strategies. This article provides an overview of the position of Jehovah's Witnesses with respect to blood transfusion and discusses the bioethical and legal principles that support their decision to choose transfusion alternatives. Continued cooperation can only serve to advance the concepts of patient autonomy, informed consent, and bodily self-determination.