A nurse is obtaining informed consent from a client who is scheduled for surgery. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Saying that a client is unable to refuse treatment once the consent form is signed is incorrect. Informed consent is a continuous process, and clients maintain the right to withdraw consent at any time before or during treatment. This statement violates patient autonomy and misrepresents the legal and ethical principles of informed consent. Choice B reason: The charge nurse does not review the risks of the procedure. It is the responsibility of the provider performing the procedure to explain risks, benefits, and alternatives. Nurses may witness the consent and reinforce teaching, but they do not provide the primary risk disclosure. This makes the statement inaccurate. Choice C reason: A partner is not required to witness the consent form. Consent requires only the client’s signature and, in some cases, a witness who can be any authorized staff member. The witness role is to verify the client’s signature, not to validate the decision. Therefore, this statement is incorrect. Choice D reason: The provider is responsible for discussing other available treatments as part of informed consent. This ensures the client understands alternatives and can make an informed decision. This statement correctly reflects the nurse’s role in reinforcing that the provider will provide comprehensive information, making it the correct answer.