A registered nurse (RN) is caring for an older adult client who is scheduled for an elective surgical procedure. The healthcare provider has completed the discussion regarding the procedure, risks, and benefits. As the RN prepares to have the informed consent document signed, which actions are the legal responsibilities of the RN? Select all that apply.
- Witnessing the client's physical signature on the informed consent documentAnswer
- Verifying that the client is signing the consent form voluntarily without coercionAnswer
- CDelegating the collection of the client's signature on the consent form to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)
- Confirming that the client appears to have a basic understanding of the information provided by the healthcare providerAnswer
- EAssuming the client lacks the capacity to sign the consent form solely because they are 85 years old
Answer
The correct actions represent the RN's legal role as a witness and advocate during the informed consent process: witnessing the physical signature, verifying the signature is voluntary, and confirming the client's basic understanding.
The legal responsibility of the registered nurse during the informed consent process is to act as a witness and an advocate. This includes physically witnessing the client sign the document, verifying that the client is acting voluntarily without coercion, and assessing that the client has a baseline understanding of what the healthcare provider discussed. If the RN discovers the client does not understand the procedure or has further questions, the RN must notify the provider before the document is signed.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The registered nurse's role in the informed consent process involves witnessing the client's signature, ensuring the consent is voluntary, and verifying the client is competent and understands the information provided.