A charge nurse in a long-term care facility is discussing ethical theories with a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following statements should the charge nurse identify as an indication that a newly licensed nurse understands utilitarianism?

A. You wish you were no longer alive?: This response might sound accusatory and may invalidate the client's feelings. The nurse should express empathy and understanding instead of making the client feel misunderstood.

B. "It is common for people who have a terminal illness to feel that way.": This response validates the client's feelings by acknowledging the emotional distress that often accompanies a terminal illness. It normalizes the experience without minimizing it and opens the door for further discussion.

C. "Why do you wish you weren't alive any longer?": While this response is direct, it might sound too probing and may feel intrusive or dismissive of the client's emotional state. A softer, more empathetic approach is usually preferred.

D. "We should talk about the treatment plan your provider has suggested.": While discussing treatment plans is important, this response may deflect the client's emotional distress and shift the focus away from their immediate emotional needs. The nurse should first address the emotional aspect before discussing treatment.

A. Respiratory acidosis is incorrect. Chronic diarrhea typically leads to metabolic acidosis, not respiratory acidosis. Metabolic acidosis occurs due to the loss of bicarbonate through diarrhea, which affects the body’s acid-base balance.

B. Hypermagnesemia is incorrect. Chronic diarrhea is more likely to lead to hypomagnesemia due to the loss of electrolytes through frequent bowel movements, not an increase in magnesium levels.

C. Hypertension is incorrect. Chronic diarrhea generally leads to dehydration and hypotension due to fluid loss rather than high blood pressure.

D. Hypokalemia is correct. Chronic diarrhea causes significant potassium loss, which can result in hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Potassium is lost in the stool, and this depletion can lead to muscle weakness, arrhythmias, and other complications.