A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for an elective surgical procedure. Which of the following actions should the nurse take regarding informed consent?

The correct answer is C: Witness the client's signature. This is crucial to ensure that the client is voluntarily giving consent for the surgical procedure. By witnessing the signature, the nurse confirms that the client is fully informed and agrees to the procedure. Obtaining consent (Choice A) is important but witnessing the client's signature (Choice C) validates that the consent is authentic. Explaining the procedure (Choice B) and risks and benefits (Choice D) are essential parts of the informed consent process but witnessing the signature is the final step to confirm the client's agreement.