Which is the highest priority nursing diagnosis for a patient who is starting CPAP therapy for sleep apnea?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. The patient frequently using an alcohol-based sanitizer for hand hygiene does not pose a risk for poisoning. Alcohol-based sanitizers are safe and effective for reducing the transmission of germs.

Choice B reason: This is correct. The patient taking acetaminophen 1000 mg every 4 hours around the clock poses a risk for poisoning. Acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter pain reliever that can cause liver damage or failure if taken in excess or for a prolonged period of time. The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen for adults is 4000 mg.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. The patient taking alprazolam 0.25 mg every 8 hours does not pose a risk for poisoning. Alprazolam is a prescription medication that belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or dependence, but not poisoning.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. The patient rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash after brushing the teeth does not pose a risk for poisoning. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and strengthen the enamel. It is added to many dental products and public water supplies. It can cause mild stomach upset if swallowed in large amounts, but not poisoning.

Choice A reason: This is correct. The patient must hold on to the railing when ambulating in the hallway indicates that the patient is experiencing difficulty with proprioception. Proprioception is the body's ability to sense its own position, movement, and spatial orientation. It helps the patient maintain balance and coordination. If the patient has impaired proprioception, they may feel unsteady or fall when walking without support.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect. The patient must add extra seasoning to food in order for it to have any flavor does not indicate that the patient is experiencing difficulty with proprioception. This may indicate that the patient has a reduced sense of taste, which can be caused by various factors, such as aging, medication, infection, or smoking. It does not affect the patient's perception of their body or movement.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. The patient suffered a first-degree burn when a heating pad was left on too long does not indicate that the patient is experiencing difficulty with proprioception. This may indicate that the patient has a reduced sense of pain or temperature, which can be caused by nerve damage, diabetes, or spinal cord injury. It does not affect the patient's perception of their body or movement.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. The patient did not smell smoke even though the smoke detector was alarming does not indicate that the patient is experiencing difficulty with proprioception. This may indicate that the patient has a reduced sense of smell, which can be caused by nasal congestion, allergy, infection, or head injury. It does not affect the patient's perception of their body or movement.