Which action is appropriate for a nurse to take when assessing a patient's family support system?

Assessing the family support system is a critical component of patient care, as it provides valuable insight into the emotional and practical resources available to the patient. Understanding the dynamics of a patient's family can help to determine their psychological well-being, coping mechanisms, and overall support during treatment. A solid support system can lead to better health outcomes, as family members often play an essential role in a patient's recovery process.

By directly assessing the family support system, the nurse can identify the strengths and weaknesses in the patient's social network, which can influence care planning. This action can involve discussing family members' involvement in the patient's care, their availability for support, and how they contribute to the patient's adherence to medical advice or treatment plans. Gathering this information allows the nurse to encourage effective communication and collaboration among the patient, family, and healthcare team, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive approach to the patient's health.

Reassuring the patient or teaching them may be valuable in certain contexts but does not directly address the assessment of their family support, which is the core of this question. Similarly, asking about pain management is important for comprehensive care but is unrelated to evaluating the support system that may be crucial for the patient's emotional and physical well-being.