Who is responsible for obtaining informed consent before a medical procedure?

• A. The nurse administering the medication.
• B. The patient signs and consents themselves without discussion.
• C. The physician or other qualified health professional.
• D. A family member may sign on behalf

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that informed consent is obtained by the physician or another qualified health professional who explains what will be done, why it’s needed, the risks and benefits, and possible alternatives, and then determines that the patient understands and agrees voluntarily to the procedure. This responsibility rests with the clinician who can provide the medical information and assess comprehension. The patient signs to indicate consent after this discussion, reflecting that they’ve been informed.

The nurse’s role is supportive and safety-focused: the nurse may answer questions within scope, ensure that the patient had an opportunity to ask questions, and witness the signing, but the nurse does not obtain consent or provide the primary information about the procedure.

A family member may sign on behalf only if the patient cannot participate in decision-making and there is a legally authorized representative designated to make medical decisions for that patient. In routine situations where the patient is capable, a family member should not substitute for the patient’s informed consent.

So, the physician or qualified health professional is responsible for obtaining informed consent, ensuring understanding, and obtaining voluntary agreement before proceeding.