Final answer:
The surgeon is responsible for informing the patient about surgery details, risks, complications, and benefits, and for obtaining informed consent. Nurses assist in communication but the primary responsibility rests with the surgeon.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individual responsible for informing the patient about the surgery, including the possible risks, complications, and benefits, is the surgeon. It is the surgeon's duty to ensure that the patient is fully informed about the procedure they will undergo and to obtain informed consent. This process typically involves a detailed discussion where the surgeon reviews critical aspects of the surgery, such as unexpected steps, operative duration, and anticipated blood loss.
During this time, the nurse plays a supportive role, often assisting in making sure that communication is clear and that the patient understands the information being provided. The nursing staff may also review additional concerns such as equipment availability and sterility confirmation. However, the ultimate responsibility of informing the patient lies with the surgeon, not the nurse or nurse manager.