A male client at an outpatient surgery center is undergoing needle aspiration of the knee. Which nursing action is appropriate?

• A. Examine the consent form for completeness
• B. Witness the client's signature on the consent form
• C. Administer antibiotics before the procedure
• D. Inform the client about risks and benefits

Answer: (B)

Informed consent is about ensuring the patient understands and voluntarily agrees to the procedure after the clinician has explained risks, benefits, and alternatives. The nurse’s role is to witness the patient’s signing of the consent form, confirming that the signature occurs in the patient’s presence and that the patient had the opportunity to ask questions and was informed by the physician. The nurse does not provide the detailed explanation of risks and benefits—that’s the clinician’s job—and does not typically administer antibiotics or other pre-procedure interventions as part of the consent process. Witnessing the signature helps protect patient autonomy and validates that the consent was given voluntarily.