Q: From WCBS’s point of view, do you encourage doctors to get consent before administering blood or blood products to patients? I am uncertain whether there is any ethical responsibility from WCBS and I would like to create awareness amongst the doctors, hence my question.
A: WCBS absolutely supports the informed consent process between the doctor and their patient when blood products are prescribed. It is essential that the patient understands both the benefits and risks of the transfusion before it is initiated. It is the doctor’s responsibility as the prescriber of the blood or blood products to obtain informed consent, and in the event that anything should go wrong, it is also their responsibility to manage the risks.
WCBS provide a patient information leaflet, as an adjunct to the doctor – patient discussion that can be viewed here: Patient Information Leaflet
Furthermore, WCBS encourage informed consent through the following education material, that is available on our website (www.wcbs.org.za):
- Clinical Guidelines for the Use of Blood Products in South Africa, 5th Edition. Chapter 2, Ordering and Administration of Blood addresses Informed Consent.
- Other information about informed consent
For more information, contact Dr Caroline Hilton, Lead Medical Consultant (caroline@wcbs.org.za).