An elderly patient with mild cognitive impairment is brought into the emergency department with a moderately severe laceration on the forearm. The nurse needs to obtain consent for suturing the wound. What is the most appropriate course of action for the nurse to ensure proper consent is obtained?
Delay the procedure until a mental health evaluation can be performed to fully assess the patient's cognitive function and ability to consent.
Assume that the family member accompanying the patient has the authority to consent and obtain their signature without verifying their legal right to make decisions for the patient.
Proceed with suturing under implied consent, given the patient's presentation to the emergency department and the need to treat the laceration
Assess the patient's capacity to understand the procedure and provide informed consent, proceeding with family consent if the patient is determined to lack capacity.