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Approach to child welfare
Representatives have indicated that Jehovah's Witnesses want their children to make their own decisions when they are old enough. However, Witness parents will want the same standard of treatment for their children as they would for themselves. Witness parents seek clinicians who are able to provide non-blood treatment.
Birth rituals and practices
- With maternity care, it is advisable that the healthcare setting notes early in the care process that the mother is a Witness. Care issues, including anaesthesia, need to be discussed and agreements reached. Witnesses are likely to present medical personnel with a Care Plan for Women in Labour when they go to a hospital for maternity care. This document can also serve as a protocol.
- The publication Management of Anaesthesia for Jehovah's Witnesses is published by The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland. The document is available online at www.aagbi.org and provides practical information about Jehovah's Witnesses in a medical setting.
- The National Headquarters has indicated that there potentially can be legal and ethical challenges and therefore full and open discussions with the parents and the Hospital Liaison Committee will prove helpful. The Hospital Liaison Committees are available as a resource to the treating team and the parents. Mutual cooperation and dialogue will create a positive environment for medical personnel and the person.
Initiation ritual/infant baptism
Essential Practice Point 7
Jehovah's Witnesses practice the initiation ritual of baptism common across Christianity. They do not believe in infant baptism even in the case of imminent threat to the life of the newborn. They are baptised when they understand the implications and responsibilities that baptism carries.
(Return to Summary of Essential Practice Points)
Foetal, infant and child death
There are no religious views or obligations in matters of foetal, infant or child death. The wishes of the parents need to be sought and followed.
Memento of a deceased child
The parents need to be consulted regarding their wish to have a memento of their child.
