In Shinal v. Toms, who must provide the information about a surgical procedure?

• A. Information must be given by the surgeon himself
• B. Nurses may provide all information
• C. Intermediaries can provide information
• D. Only written materials are required

Answer: (A)

The central idea here is informed consent and who has the duty to disclose information about a surgical procedure. The patient must receive a full, understandable briefing about what will be done, the risks, the benefits, alternatives, and the consequences of not having the procedure. This duty rests on the surgeon performing the operation. While nurses and other staff can provide supportive information and answer questions within their scope, they cannot replace the surgeon in giving the essential disclosure about the procedure itself. Written materials can help, but they do not substitute for direct, personal counseling by the physician. The case cited reinforces that the surgeon bears the responsibility to provide this information directly to the patient, ensuring consent is truly informed.