The nurse has developed a strong rapport with a client whose medical c

The nurse has developed a strong rapport with a client whose medical care necessitates transfusion of multiple units of blood. The client has a religious objection to this treatment even though it is necessary to sustain life.

What action should the nurse take?
1. Use the rapport established to influence the client to accept the blood transfusions.
2. Explain the scientific reasons that blood transfusions are necessary and why refusal is dangerous.
3. Encourage the client, the physician, and the client’s spiritual adviser to discuss this conflict and any possible alternative therapies.
4. Suggest to the client that as the illness progresses, the blood will probably be transfused despite religious objections.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Using the rapport established to influence the decision is unethical.
Rationale 2: Just explaining scientific reasons will not generally make a difference in the client’s decision.
Rationale 3: This is a delicate situation for a nurse who has developed a rapport and relationship with a client. The best response is to support the discussion between client, physician, and spiritual adviser. At that point, the nurse must be prepared to support whatever decision the client makes, even if it is to not permit the transfusions.
Rationale 4: This is unethical and should not be done by the nurse.