Problem: A 78-year-old man with diabetes and end-stage renal disease is sent to the hospital from home. He has gangrene of the left foot. The man undergoes surgery; however, the gangrene continues. Further surgery and hospitalization are recommended. He wants to return home and let nature take its course. He is alert, oriented, and determined to have decision-making capacity. His partner is extremely upset and said he may be unable to care for him unless he has surgery. As a nurse, what should you do FIRST? Ensure the patient and family understands the treatment options, including benefits and risks. Ask the hospital ethics committee to consider this case as soon as possible. Inform the partner that this is the patient's choice alone so there is no need for further discussion. Encourage the partner to look for paid caregivers.