Blood and blood products
Acceptable
Diet Strict dietary laws followed by many Jews—milk and meat not mixed; predatory fowl, shellfish, and pork products forbidden; kosher products only may be requested
Euthanasia Active euthanasia prohibited—passive euthanasia—not prolonging life may be acceptable—nutrition a basic need—not withheld—seek rabbinical consultation
Healing beliefs Medical care expected Healing practices Prayers for the sick Medications No restrictions Organ donations Complex issue; some practiced—seek rabbinical consultation Right-to-die issues Right to die with dignity
If death is inevitable, no new procedures need to be undertaken, but those ongoing must continue
Surgical procedures Most allowed Visitors Family, friends, rabbi, many community services
Mennonite
Abortion Therapeutic acceptable Artificial insemination Individual conscience; husband to wife Autopsy Acceptable Birth control Acceptable Blood and blood products
Acceptable
Diet No specific restrictions Euthanasia Not condoned Healing beliefs Part of God’s work
Table 6–1 continued
HEALING Traditions ■ 135
Healing practices Prayer and anointing with oil Medications No restrictions Organ donations Acceptable Right-to-die issues Do not believe life must be continued at all cost Surgical procedures No restrictions Visitors Family, community