Clark would never make that trade if he was thinking clearly. He's running on nothing but adrenaline and fear right now and every hour that goes by without news can only increase his anxiety.
Yes, I think that comes through clearly in the story: That he is wracked with guilt, beside himself with anxiety, and completely lost without Lois.
Actually, if Lois were there, she would immediately veto his plan* and come up with something much better... something that doesn't involve exposing Superman at all. Alas, Lois isn't there.
* edited to add: assuming I know what his plan is. Re-reading your comments, I'm beginning to wonder. just what *is* he planning to do?
