A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for a surgical procedure and states, "I don't want to have this surgery anymore." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Every competent adult has the legal and ethical right to refuse any medical treatment, including surgery, at any time — even after consent has been signed. The nurse must respect and uphold this right (autonomy). Attempting to convince the client by citing the provider's recommendation or managing expectations minimizes the client's right. Reviewing the procedure again (D) may be appropriate after acknowledging the client's right, but the first response must confirm the right to refuse.