Question

A nurse is caring for a client who requires an informed consent for a surgical procedure. Which of the following actions is the nurse's responsibility?

1) Explaining the risks and benefits of the procedure to the client
2) Obtaining the client's signature on the consent form
3) Administering anesthesia to the client
4) Assisting the surgeon during the procedure

Answer 1

The nurse's responsibility in the informed consent process is to obtain the client's signature on the consent form. The explanation of procedure risks and benefits is done by the surgeon, and the nurse confirms patient's details and that the team is prepared for the procedure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's responsibility in the informed consent process primarily involves obtaining the client's signature on the consent form, after the surgeon has explained the risks and benefits of the procedure to the client. Administering anesthesia or assisting the surgeon during the procedure are tasks typically performed by other specialized healthcare professionals. The nurse also plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the team members, including the nurse and an anesthesia professional, are on the same page with regards to the patient's care and recovery, and that all critical information such as the patient's identity, surgical site, and procedure, is confirmed prior to surgery. On top of that, the nursing staff is responsible for confirming sterility, equipment availability, and other concerns.