A blind patient is scheduled for a prostatectomy and an informed consent is needed. The nurse should do which of the following when obtaining an informed consent from a patient who is legally blind?

Explanation

•The consent form should be read aloud to a blind patient. The physician and nurse should make sure the patient understands the procedure, its risks, and alternative treatments.

•With a blind patient, it is recommended that an impartial witness is present to observe the consent process or that a recording be made of the consent, but this is not required by law.

•The validity of consent does not depend on the form in which it was given, verbal or written. It depends on it being voluntary and being given by an informed person with the mental capacity to consent.

•A family member or friend should not sign the consent form unless the patient is unable.

•A blind patient cannot read a consent, but he can sign a consent.

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