Anaesthetists Handbook - MEDICAL EDUCATION at University ...

Blood and blood productsfactors, haemoglobin-based oxygen carriers, immunoglobulins,interferon and the like. It is therefore important to discuss with eachWitness patient whether or not these products are acceptable.Whilst the views and wishes of an adult Jehovah’s Witness patientwith regard to blood transfusions must always be absolutelyrespected, this is not always the case where children and youngpeople are concerned, and the wellbeing of the child must beparamount. It is in such circumstances that the greatest difficulties inmanaging the medical care of Jehovah’s Witness patients can arise.Referral to a consultant, and close reading of the UHCW guideline, isessential.If you need advice:• In hours – contact Transfusion Team, bleep 1287 or 2280.• Out of hours – contact consultant haematologist on call.See also Management of Anaesthesia for Jehovah’s Witnesses,second edition, AAGBI, November 2005.Anaesthetists Handbook January 2010 189