Where do we draw the line on what is appropriate and what isn't? Is it ok to break the rule because your wife has anxiety? That's really what this boils down to.

Even if you take the "ICU nurse" thing out of the equation, having anxiety isn't a reason to ignore these rules. If it was, roughly 10-20% of America could use that excuse and start having get togethers. Set up some virtual hangouts, give your wife a break to get out and exercise, find other ways than social get togethers.