The nurse is assisting the surgeon in obtaining informed consent from a client for a scheduled

surgical procedure. The client signs the consent and after the surgeon leaves the nursing unit the
client informs the nurse that he is unclear about certain aspects of the surgical procedure. What
should the nurse do?

Technically speaking, obtaining consent from patients or authorised persons is not under the nurse's scope of duty.
However, as nurses are often indirectly involving in the process of obtaining consent and exchanging detailed
information concerning the treatments or procedures as they spend the most time with patients.

-The nurse MUST ASK the patients if they understand the procedure for which they are giving consent.
-The nurse informs the HCP if the patient does consent, and ensure that the rejection is written, signed, and
witnessed.

Imaging professionals may be required to witness the signing of a written informed consent form. -The physician is
ultimately responsible for the informed consent process.

Ask the patient if he or she understands the procedure.

It is the doctor’s/surgeon’s role to explain and enlighten the patient about the procedure. Nurse’s on the other hand,
are responsible that their patients truly understand the procedure which they are giving consent. In instances where
the patient was unclear about certain aspects of the procedure, the nurse must ask the patient what parts of it were
unclear. The nurse should also let the patient repeat what the doctor have said so that the nurse can provide an
answer to their patient. However, it is still best to inform or consult the doctor/ surgeon to clarify the concerns of the
patient to retain accuracy and prevent doubt.