Q.2. (See question 3380 above) As I have to deal with my husband’s caregivers, and they look for instructions, could I interrupt the Tzom just to give short and to the point instructions and then continue, or do I have to start all over again?
A. Horav Chaim Kanievsky Shlit’a (Shoneh Halachos, Moadim, 572: 10, page 217, n. 2) is quoted as ruling that one need only refrain from “idle words.” However, if one must speak to perform a Chesed, act of help to others or other important matters, he may speak up. Furthermore, he concludes that if one’s wife requires some conversation, this, too, is not forbidden.
Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that when one takes on to follow this tradition, one should specify that it carries these exceptions. As mentioned above all should be accepted “Beli Nedder.”
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller and Horav Aharon Miller Shlit’a