An 84-year-old adult male requires nonurgent surgery. The client is considered to have diminished decision-making capacity due to a diagnosis of Alzheimer's. The nurse questions his ability to provide informed consent for the procedure. The best action for the nurse to take in this situation is which of the following?

D request the physician sign the consent form A as this is nonurgent surgery with few risks, allow the client to sign the consent form C have the client's 54-year-old second cousin sign the consent form B contact administrative personnel for a determination consistent with hospital policy