If a patient's family is at the bedside crying and you need to talk to them, what should you do first?

In this situation, the priority is to ensure that the patient's wishes and healthcare decisions are respected. Asking about the patient's advanced directive is crucial because it informs you about any pre-established preferences regarding medical treatment and interventions. Understanding the patient's directives helps to guide the conversation with the family and ensures that any discussions about care align with the patient's wishes.

Given the emotional state of the family, addressing advanced directives first can also provide clarity and possibly comfort to the family members, as they may be unsure about the patient's desires. This approach fosters a foundation of communication about the patient’s care that is both respectful and informed.

While consulting a social worker, explaining the situation, or setting up a family meeting are all important steps that involve supporting the family, understanding the patient’s advanced directives is the immediate priority in making informed decisions about ongoing care and respecting the autonomy of the patient.