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: Dry mucous membranes signal dehydration, not hyperkalemia directly. High potassium affects cardiac and nerve function, not mucosal hydration status in renal failure.

Choice B reason: Hyperactive reflexes occur in hypocalcemia, not hyperkalemia. Excess potassium depresses nerve and muscle activity, often reducing reflexes instead of enhancing them.

Choice C reason: Trousseau’s sign indicates hypocalcemia, with carpal spasm from cuff pressure. Hyperkalemia in renal failure doesn’t trigger this; it’s a calcium issue.

Choice D reason: Irregular heart rate, like bradycardia or arrhythmias, stems from hyperkalemia’s effect on cardiac conduction. In renal failure, potassium excess disrupts rhythms critically.

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.