What should a perioperative nurse ensure is in the patient's chart during preoperative assessment?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of obtaining informed consent before any surgical or invasive procedure. The informed consent form ensures that the patient has been adequately informed about the procedure, including its risks, benefits, and alternatives, and that they agree to proceed with the surgery willingly. This is a foundational principle in medical ethics and patient rights, safeguarding the patient's autonomy.

While documenting preoperative medication orders, the patient’s preferred anesthesia type, and outlining postoperative care are also crucial for ensuring comprehensive perioperative care, they do not hold the same level of ethical and legal significance as securing informed consent. Without the signed informed consent, the procedure may not proceed legally or ethically, regardless of the other preparations being in place. Thus, ensuring the informed consent form is signed is a critical responsibility of the perioperative nurse in the preoperative assessment process.