What are the nurse's responsibilities in obtaining informed consent?

• A. Obtain consent from family only
• B. Document without confirming understanding
• C. Decide risks and benefits without patient input
• D. Ensure patient understands purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives; confirm voluntary consent; witness signature and document

Answer: (D)

Informed consent is a process that protects patient autonomy and requires clear communication and voluntary agreement. The nurse’s responsibilities include making sure the patient understands why the procedure is recommended, what the risks and benefits are, and what alternatives exist; confirming that the decision to proceed is voluntary and free from pressure; and witnessing the patient’s signature while properly documenting the consent in the medical record. The nurse should check for understanding, answer questions, and arrange for language interpretation if needed, ensuring the patient or a legally authorized representative has the capacity to consent. The nurse does not obtain consent from family alone, cannot document understanding without it being confirmed, and does not determine the risks and benefits—those are explained by the clinician with the patient’s input.