How would you handle difficult family members who disagree with the care that the patient agreed to?

"I would acknowledge that I understand they want the best for their family member, but explain that I cannot discuss the patient's care with them and that the patient has the right to make their own decision. I would encourage them to discuss their concerns with the patient directly and perhaps ask for a shared meeting with the doctor so their concerns could be addressed. I would definitely report the interaction to my nursing supervisor."

As long as the patient is competent to make their own decisions, the best way to deal with these situations is to tell the family that they really need to talk with the patient. You also should not be talking about the patient's condition when they are not present. As you answer, talk about how you will rely on your ability to educate the family and loved ones of your patients and why doing so is the best for their care. Depending on the situation of the patient, buy-in from the family is extremely important on their path to healing.