Prior to a procedure, a patient states uncertainty about recovery. Which question is a priority for the nurse to ask?

• A. Are you concerned about your recovery time?
• B. Do you have any questions about the procedure?
• C. Do you understand why they are doing this procedure?
• D. Are you concerned about experiencing pain after the procedure?

Answer: (C)

Understanding why the procedure is being performed is the priority because informed consent rests on the patient grasping the purpose and expected benefits of the intervention. When the patient can state why the procedure is ordered, the nurse can verify true understanding, address any misconceptions, and reduce uncertainty about what recovery will entail. If the patient doesn’t understand the rationale, questions about recovery time or postoperative pain may reflect that gap rather than true readiness to proceed. Using plain language and a teach-back method to confirm comprehension helps ensure consent is truly informed and supports the patient’s autonomy as you move forward.