A nurse is caring for a client who has lung cancer. The client tells the nurse they do not want to be resuscitated in the event of a cardiac arrest. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Choice A reason: Being married with children often buffers suicide risk by providing social support and purpose, reducing isolation—a key factor in depression. Scientifically, strong familial ties correlate with lower rates, making this a protective, not risk-enhancing, element in mental health assessments.

Choice B reason: Strong religious affiliation typically lowers suicide risk, as faith offers coping mechanisms and community, countering despair. Scientifically, studies show religiosity inversely relates to suicide, acting as a protective factor, not a contributor, in depression-related risk evaluations.

Choice C reason: A recent pay raise suggests improved financial stability, reducing stress—a suicide risk factor. Positive life events like this bolster resilience in depression, not heighten risk. Scientifically, this aligns with lower suicidal ideation, making it a protective rather than aggravating circumstance.

Choice D reason: Chronic back pain increases suicide risk in depression, as persistent pain erodes quality of life, amplifying hopelessness. Scientifically, chronic conditions correlate with higher rates, as physical suffering compounds psychological distress, making this a significant risk factor per mental health research.

Choice A reason: Stating no need for gynecological exams post-hysterectomy is incorrect. Even without a uterus, pelvic exams monitor for cancers like ovarian or vaginal. This misunderstanding suggests the client lacks full awareness of long-term care needs, indicating incomplete informed consent about the procedure’s implications on future health monitoring.

Choice B reason: Expecting a large stomach scar is inaccurate for a vaginal hysterectomy, which avoids abdominal incisions unlike abdominal hysterectomy. This misconception shows the client does not understand the surgical approach, a key consent element, as it impacts recovery and risks, suggesting consent was not fully informed.

Choice C reason: Expressing relief about no more children aligns with understanding a hysterectomy removes the uterus, ending menstruation and fertility. This reflects comprehension of the procedure’s purpose and permanent outcome, a core aspect of informed consent, indicating the client grasps the surgery’s reproductive implications accurately.

Choice D reason: Expecting periods to resume post-hysterectomy is wrong, as removing the uterus stops menstruation permanently. This error reveals a critical misunderstanding of the procedure’s effects, a fundamental consent requirement, suggesting the client has not been adequately informed about the surgery’s impact on her menstrual cycle.