A 77-year-old female client experienced a stroke several weeks ago that has left her with several motor and sensory deficits, including dysphagia. The client is receiving a diet with a modified texture that is easier to chew and swallow. What nursing action should the nurse perform in order to maintain this client's safety during feeding?
Ensure that there is a complete and functional suction system at the bedside.
Position the head of the client's bed at a height of 30° to 45°.
Provide two larger meals each day rather than three smaller meals in order to prevent fatigue.
Encourage the client to hold her breath while she is attempting to swallow.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Ensure that there is a complete and functional suction system at the bedside. This is an essential precaution for clients with dysphagia because they are at high risk of aspiration. Having suction equipment ready allows for quick intervention if the client begins to choke or aspirate.
B. Position the head of the client's bed at a height of 30° to 45°. This positioning is too low for feeding. To reduce the risk of aspiration, the head of the bed should be elevated to at least 45° to 90° during feeding. Therefore, this option is less safe.
C. Provide two larger meals each day rather than three smaller meals in order to prevent fatigue. Smaller, more frequent meals are generally recommended to prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of aspiration, as larger meals can be overwhelming and increase the risk of choking.
D. Encourage the client to hold her breath while she is attempting to swallow. This is not a standard or safe practice for managing dysphagia. Safe swallowing techniques typically include ensuring the client is alert, properly positioned, and eating slowly with small bites.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Sit with the client for a few minutes. While providing comfort is important, it does not address the immediate need to evaluate and manage a potentially serious condition.
B. Administer an analgesic. Administering analgesics without assessing the cause of the headache might mask symptoms of a serious issue. This is not the priority action.
C. Inform the nurse manager. Informing the nurse manager is important but does not directly address the client’s immediate needs or potential emergency.
D. Call the health care provider immediately. Reporting severe headache in a client with a cerebral aneurysm is critical as it could indicate worsening of the condition, such as aneurysm rupture or increased intracranial pressure. Immediate action is required to prevent further complications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Assisting the client with meals: Assisting the client with meals is appropriate, as clients with dysphagia may need help to ensure safe swallowing and to avoid choking or aspiration.
B. Placing food on the affected side of the mouth: This is contraindicated because placing food on the affected side could increase the risk of choking or aspiration, as the client may not have adequate control over swallowing on the affected side.
C. Testing the gag reflex before offering food or fluids: Testing the gag reflex is appropriate for ensuring that the client has an intact protective reflex before eating or drinking, reducing the risk of aspiration.
D. Allowing ample time to eat: Allowing the client ample time to eat is important to prevent rushing, which could increase the risk of choking or aspiration. It ensures that the client can safely swallow their food.
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