Do you want the surgeon to re-instruct the patient on the procedure? Is there anything else you need to do now that the patient has signed the document?
Under local anesthesia, a patient is admitted to your surgical center for a breast biopsy. The patient has already been informed about the procedure, its risks, alternatives, desired outcomes, and potential complications by the surgeon. You hand over the surgery permit form to the patient for her signature. She confidently states that she understands the procedure and has no further questions before signing the form. Her husband, who is visiting her, expresses concern that something during the procedure will frighten his wife. What are your plans at this point? Do you inform the surgeon that you did not obtain informed consent? Do you want the surgeon to re-instruct the patient on the procedure? Is there anything else you need to do now that the patient has signed the document?