Paradoxical relationship of life versus death and blood transfusion in Jehovah's Witnesses

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to study the conflict of fundamental principles based on bioethics and the Brazilian legal system. Methodology: A narrative review of the literature was done. Results: Patients who are "Jehovah's Witnesses" adherents refuse blood transfusion treatment for reasons related to their religious beliefs. This, in turn, underlies the life and principles that these people will follow, however, it is necessary to respect the principle of human dignity. Therefore, allogeneic blood treatment in Jehovah's Witnesses is a complex problem involving different paradigms and a collision of fundamental precepts such as freedom of belief and the right to life. The autonomy of the patient and the duty and responsibility of the health professional to save lives also come into conflict. For the alternative treatment some methods have been created with the intention of minimizing this problem, however, despite the numerous techniques to avoid transfusion, blood does not have an obsolete and effective substitute, it is often the only way to maintain life of the patient. Conclusion: There is little literature on the topic of blood transfusion among Jehovah's Witnesses.