Who typically obtains informed consent in a clinical setting?

• A. The physician obtains consent; the nurse confirms patient understanding and witnesses the signature.
• B. The nurse obtains consent and documents it.
• C. A pharmacist obtains consent for all procedures.
• D. The patient signs consent forms without any explanation.

Answer: (A)

Informed consent hinges on clear explanation, understanding, and voluntary agreement; the clinician performing the procedure should obtain consent. The physician discusses what will be done, along with risks, benefits, and alternatives, and confirms the patient’s capacity to decide. After that discussion, the patient or their authorized representative signs the form, and a nurse can help ensure the patient understands and witness the signature, documenting that consent was obtained and informed. The nurse’s role is to support understanding and verification, not to replace the physician’s explanation. The other options aren’t correct because pharmacists do not obtain consent for all procedures, and consent cannot be valid if the patient signs without adequate explanation and understanding.