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

Choice A reason: This is a correct choice because autonomy is a key element of decentralized decision making. Autonomy refers to the ability and right of individuals or groups to make their own decisions without interference from others. Decentralized decision making empowers the employees to exercise their autonomy and use their own judgment and expertise to solve problems and improve performance².

Choice B reason: This is a correct choice because authority is a key element of decentralized decision making. Authority refers to the power and legitimacy to make decisions and take actions. Decentralized decision making delegates the authority from the top management to the lower levels of the organization, allowing them to make decisions that affect their work and outcomes².

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because prioritization is not a key element of decentralized decision making. Prioritization refers to the process of ranking tasks or goals according to their importance and urgency. Decentralized decision making does not necessarily involve prioritization, as different individuals or groups may have different criteria and preferences for setting their priorities².

Choice D reason: This is a correct choice because responsibility is a key element of decentralized decision making. Responsibility refers to the obligation and duty to perform the assigned tasks and achieve the desired results. Decentralized decision making assigns the responsibility to the individuals or groups who make the decisions and hold them accountable for their actions and outcomes².

Choice E reason: This is a correct choice because accountability is a key element of decentralized decision making. Accountability refers to the expectation and requirement to report and explain the decisions and actions taken and the results achieved. Decentralized decision making ensures that the individuals or groups who make the decisions are accountable for their performance and quality, and that they receive feedback and recognition for their work².

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.