BIOETHICAL CHALLENGES IN THE TREATMENT OF JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES WITH HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES - ARE WE REALLY PREPARED FOR THIS?

Adela Perolla*

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The refusal of blood transfusions by Jehovah's Witnesses based on their religious beliefs creates significant bioethical challenges for physicians treating patients with hematological malignancies. This article provides a detailed review of the bioethical issues that arise when considering the rights of Jehovah's Witnesses with hematological malignancies. It highlights the ethical implications of the refusal of blood transfusions and the challenges physicians face when providing care, including informed consent, end-of-life care, conflicts of interest, and access to appropriate medical care. This article also explores the current state of medical preparedness to handle the unique ethical considerations presented by the treatment of Jehovah's Witnesses with hematological malignancies, including the extent to which medical professionals are adequately trained to navigate these issues. Review: This review examines the bioethical challenges associated with the treatment of Jehovah's Witnesses with hematological malignancies. The article discusses the ethical implications of conflicts of interest, including the balancing of the patient's religious beliefs with professional duty to provide appropriate medical care. End-of-life care issues are also addressed, including the need to balance respecting the patient's autonomy and religious beliefs with the provision of appropriate medical care. Refusal of blood transfusions presents ethical and legal issues for physicians, including the exploration of alternative treatments while ensuring patients receive appropriate medical care. Informed consent is also discussed, including the unique considerations that arise from religious beliefs, language barriers, cultural differences, or health literacy issues. Conclusion: The refusal of blood transfusions by Jehovah's Witnesses based on religious beliefs creates significant bioethical challenges for physicians treating patients with hematological malignancies. This article highlights the ethical considerations that arise from these challenges and the current state of medical preparedness to handle these issues. It is crucial that physicians prioritize clear and effective communication, adherence to ethical guidelines and legal requirements, and consideration of alternative treatments while respecting the patient's autonomy and religious beliefs. Adequate training and resources must be provided to physicians to ensure they are equipped to handle the unique ethical considerations presented by the treatment of Jehovah's Witnesses with hematological malignancies.

Keywords: Jehovah's Witnesses, hematological malignancies, bioethics, blood transfusions medical preparedness, conflicts of interest, end-of-life care, informed consent, religious beliefs, medical treatment.