What is a key belief of Jehovah's Witnesses regarding medical procedures?

Jehovah's Witnesses hold a key belief that blood, as specified in their interpretation of biblical texts, should not be ingested or introduced into the body. This belief extends to all forms of blood, including blood transfusions, which they view as a violation of God's laws. As a result, Jehovah's Witnesses refuse blood transfusions even in life-threatening situations, often seeking alternative medical treatments that do not involve blood products.

This conviction shapes their approach to medical care, leading them to explore surgical options and medical treatments that comply with their religious beliefs. They may accept medical procedures and therapies that do not involve blood, such as certain organ transplants, but they remain firm on their stance against transfusions. Understanding this belief is crucial when providing care to Jehovah's Witness patients, as it directly impacts treatment choices and ethical considerations in medical practice.