Which of the following is included in preoperative nursing care?

• A. Consent
• B. Intraoperative monitoring
• C. Discharge planning
• D. Physical therapy

Answer: (A)

Obtaining informed consent is part of preoperative nursing care because this phase ensures the patient understands the planned procedure, its risks, benefits, and alternatives, and voluntary agreement is documented before anesthesia or surgery. The nurse verifies comprehension, answers questions, confirms the patient’s decision is voluntary, and ensures the consent form is properly signed and witnessed. Intraoperative monitoring happens during the operation, discharge planning occurs after surgery to prepare for going home, and physical therapy is typically a postoperative activity aimed at recovery, not part of the preoperative prep.