Final answer:
When a patient is unable to sign a consent form for surgery due to narcotic analgesic administration, the next of kin or legally authorized representative should sign the consent. The nurse must follow hospital policy and the law and make sure the decision-maker is well-informed and that the process is properly documented.
Step-by-step explanation:
When caring for a patient who is posted for surgery and is not able to sign the consent form due to the effects of narcotic analgesics, an alternative arrangement for informed consent must be made. Typically, the next of kin or a legally authorized representative (LAR) may be requested to sign on the patient's behalf. However, specific hospital policies and regional legal requirements can vary, so it is essential for the nurse to be familiar with the institution's protocols and the applicable laws governing informed consent in such situations.
It is also crucial for the nurse to ensure that the substitute decision-maker is provided with all the relevant information about the surgery, including the risks, benefits, and alternatives, and that they understand this information before signing the consent form. The process should be well documented, and if needed, a witness may also be required to sign the consent form to ensure the validity of the substitute decision-making.