Verification of consent

Verification of consent

What is a nurse’s obligation to verify consent? Gina is an licensed practitioner nurse on a busy surgical unit. As she prepares her client, Mr. Saara, for surgery, she notices he hasn’t signed the consent form. Clients usually sign these forms in advance in the surgeon’s office or pre-admission clinic. Gina tries to confirm that Mr. Saara has consented but has difficulty communicating with him. Mr. Saara smiles and nods at Gina’s questions, but speaks little English so it’s not clear if he understands. No one is available to help Gina communicate with him.

When the OR calls for Mr. Saara, Gina explains the situation. She is told, “don’t worry about it, the surgeon explained everything to him, all you need to do is to get him to sign the form and witness his signature.” When Gina questions this, she is asked, “Why are you making such a big deal out of this? Clerks witness signatures all the time! Our hospital policy says any staff member can witness a signature.”

1. What does the term consent mean to you?
2. What is the importance of consent to the patient? What is the importance to the assigned Licensed practitioner nurse?
3. Which British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals(BCCNP) Professional Standard indicators apply to this case study?
4. Which British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals(BCCNP) Practice Standard applies to consent?