What should the nurse practitioner do when a husband expresses his wishes regarding end-of-life care for his ailing wife?

When a husband expresses his wishes regarding end-of-life care for his ailing wife, the most appropriate action is to encourage open communication by asking him to speak candidly. This approach is important because family members often play a significant role in the healthcare decision-making process, especially in sensitive situations like end-of-life care. By inviting him to share his thoughts, the nurse practitioner fosters an environment of trust and support, allowing the husband to voice his concerns and wishes.

Listening to the family's perspective helps to ensure that the care provided aligns with the patient's values and the family's understanding of what the patient would want. It also aids in establishing rapport, which is essential for effective communication and shared decision-making. In this context, the nurse practitioner can also gather valuable information that may assist in developing a holistic care plan that honors both the patient's preferences and the family's insights.

Other options, like telling him not to worry or excluding him from the discussion, disregard the importance of communication and may contribute to feelings of helplessness or frustration. Simply waiting for the patient to articulate her wishes might not be feasible if she is unable to communicate due to her condition. Therefore, facilitating dialogue with the husband is the most constructive approach in this scenario.