A nurse is assisting with the care of a 17-year-old client who is married and needs to undergo an emergency appendectomy. Which of the following individuals should the nurse ask to sign the informed consent form?

A. The client: A married 17-year-old is considered emancipated in most states and has the legal authority to provide informed consent for their own medical care, including surgery. The nurse should obtain the client’s signature to confirm understanding and voluntary agreement. B. The client's provider: The provider performs the procedure and is responsible for explaining the risks, benefits, and alternatives, but does not sign the consent on behalf of the client. C. The client's partner: A spouse or partner does not have legal authority to consent for an emancipated minor unless specifically granted by law, so the partner’s signature is not required. D. The client's caregiver: A parent or guardian would normally provide consent for a minor, but an emancipated minor has independent legal authority, making caregiver consent unnecessary in this scenario.