Patient Rights – Informed Consent and Second Opinions
People receiving blood (or their families) sometimes feel they have no say in what happens. In reality, patients have important rights regarding transfusion decisions.
Except in true emergencies where immediate action is needed to save life, patients (or parents/guardians) should:
· Be told why a transfusion is recommended.
· Be informed about the benefits (e.g., more oxygen, less bleeding, safer surgery).
· Hear about possible risks (common mild reactions, rare serious ones).
· Learn about any reasonable alternatives (e.g., iron therapy, medicines, postponing surgery), and why they may or may not work in this situation.
This information should be:
· Given in clear, simple language.
· Adjusted to the patient’s age and understanding.
· Provided in a respectful, non‑rushed way whenever time allows.
After this, patients (or guardians) are asked to agree (consent). This may be written or verbal, depending on hospital policy.
Right to ask questions and say no
Patients have the right to:
· Ask as many questions as they need, such as:
o “What happens if I don’t get this transfusion?”
o “How many units are planned?”
o “How will you keep me safe?”
· Ask for explanations of lab results (e.g., hemoglobin, platelet count).
· Request that information be repeated or explained in simpler terms.
In non‑emergency situations, a patient who understands the risks has the right to refuse transfusion. However, they should be clearly told what the consequences might be so they can make an informed choice.
If time allows and the situation is not immediately life‑threatening, patients can:
· Ask to speak to another doctor in the same hospital.
· Request a consultation with a specialist (e.g., hematologist, obstetrician, pediatrician).
· In some cases, seek an outside second opinion.
Hospitals should not treat such requests as disloyalty. Second opinions are a normal part of good medical practice.