The physician is obtaining surgical consent from a blind patient. Which of the following should the nurse do to ensure the informed consent is understood by the patient?

Explanation

•The physician is responsible for obtaining the consent, but the nurse is responsible for ensuring that the patient understands it. The patient should be allowed to ask questions to be sure he or she understands the procedure, its risks, and alternative treatments.

•The consent form should be read aloud to the patient.

•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.

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

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