Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

Which statement about informed consent for surgery is NOT true?

1. The medical assistant is responsible for obtaining the patient's consent to treatment

2. The patient must understand the potential risks and benefits of the surgery

3. The patient must understand the possible risks of any alternative treatment

4. The patient cannot give consent if he or she has received preoperative medication

The correct answer is: The medical assistant is responsible for obtaining the patient's consent to treatment

The accurate statement regarding informed consent for surgery involves recognizing the specific roles of healthcare professionals in the consent process. While medical assistants play a critical role in the healthcare team, they do not hold the primary responsibility for obtaining informed consent. This responsibility typically lies with the physician or surgeon, who must ensure that the patient fully understands the procedure, including risks, benefits, and alternatives, before moving forward. Informed consent is a legal and ethical necessity that emphasizes patient autonomy and understanding. This means that while the medical assistant may assist in the process—such as by providing information or preparing documentation—the final responsibility for obtaining informed consent rests with the licensed practitioner who will perform the surgery. Understanding the intricacies of this process is vital for medical assistants, as it helps them know the scope of their practice and understand patient rights, thereby ensuring compliance with healthcare laws and regulations.