To transfuse or not to transfuse? Jehovah's Witnesses and postoperative hemorrhage in pediatric otolaryngology

The risks of hemorrhage should be discussed with JW parents of patients undergoing even routine otolaryngologic surgery. In these cases, early shared decision making with family, the JW Hospital Liaison committee, and hematology was pursued regarding mutually acceptable interventions. Aggressive non-transfusion based resuscitation was carried out to minimize the likelihood of transfusion. In the first case, danger to the patient's life eventually necessitated transfusion in accordance with the patient's best interest and previous case law. A defined framework involving all stake-holders, including Pastoral Care, in the event of postoperative hemorrhage is critical.