Ace the ANCC Exam 2026 – Ignite Your Nursing Superpowers!

The correct action for the nurse practitioner in this scenario is to reconfirm the patient's end-of-life decision. This step is crucial, especially when providing care for a patient with terminal liver disease who has an advance directive that specifies comfort measures only.

Reconfirming the patient's decision ensures that their wishes are respected and that there is no ambiguity regarding their desires for end-of-life care. It is imperative for the healthcare provider to validate the patient's understanding of their condition and their choices, as well as to assess if the patient's preferences have changed, given the dynamic nature of terminal illnesses. This process not only supports the patient's autonomy but also fosters open communication between the healthcare team and the patient, which is vital for delivering compassionate care.

Options such as discussing the patient's decision with family members could be appropriate but should be approached with caution, ensuring adherence to the patient's confidentiality and decisions. Persuading the patient to participate in a clinical trial contradicts the directive for comfort measures only and can impose undue pressure on the patient. Referring the patient for psychological evaluation does not directly address their expressed preferences and could detract from providing the comfort-focused care the patient has indicated is their priority. Thus, reconfirming the patient's end-of-life decision aligns best with honoring their autonomy