Can I Refuse Blood?

Yes, you can refuse blood as long as you have the capacity to make that decision.

According to available information, a competent adult has the right to refuse medical treatment, including blood transfusions, even if the decision could lead to death. This right is based on the principle of patient autonomy, which respects an individual's right to make their own healthcare decisions.

Refusal of Blood Transfusion: Key Considerations

Here are some important points regarding the refusal of blood transfusions:

• Capacity: The individual must have the mental capacity to understand the risks and benefits of refusing blood. This means they must be able to understand the information provided by their healthcare provider and make an informed decision.
• Verbal Refusal: The reference states a simple verbal refusal is sufficient to decline blood transfusions.
• Informed Consent/Refusal: Healthcare providers have a responsibility to inform patients about the potential consequences of refusing blood, including the possibility of death.
• Respect for Autonomy: Providing the patient retains the capacity for this decision, their refusal must be respected, even if this decision may lead to death.
• Documentation: The patient's refusal and understanding of the risks involved should be documented in their medical record.

Example Scenario

Imagine a patient about to undergo surgery. They are informed by their doctor that a blood transfusion may be necessary during or after the procedure. If the patient, understanding the risks, clearly states, "I do not want a blood transfusion, even if it means I might die," and they are deemed to have the capacity to make this decision, the medical team is obligated to respect that refusal.

Summary