Preparation of a manual for treatment of patients refusing blood transfusion

: We prepared a concise and simple manual for the treatment of a patient refusing blood transfusion. In this manual, we present the idea that our medical staff will respect the intention of adult patients but not the intention of juveniles below 18 years of age. If an unconscious adult patient is carrying a blood refusal card, we would regard the card as a document indemnifying the hospital from responsibility and we would treat the patient without blood transfusion. However, we would treat a juvenile patient below 18 years of age with blood transfusion if necessary, even if they and their parents refused blood transfusion. By following the manual, we can cope with the patient who refuses blood transfusion, promptly and precisely and we are rarely prosecuted by them. We respect the right of patients to make decisions regarding medical treatment and to resolve problems regarding medical expenses. We recommend that all medical institutions prepare a manual for the treatment of the patient refusing blood transfusion and officially announce the institution's policies on this matter.