A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness. The client states, "I am not giving up. I want as much treatment as possible." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. The client tucks their chin when they swallow:
This is a proper swallowing technique. Tucking the chin helps close off the airway during swallowing, reducing the risk of aspiration. It facilitates the safe passage of food or liquids into the esophagus
B. The client adjusts the head of their bed to 90°:
This action is appropriate. Keeping the head of the bed elevated to 30 to 45 degrees is recommended for clients with dysphagia as it helps prevent aspiration during swallowing.
C. The client drinks their thickened juice with a straw:
This action indicates a potential problem. The use of a straw with thickened liquids is generally not recommended for clients with dysphagia. Thickened liquids are used to slow down the flow of the liquid and reduce the risk of aspiration. Drinking thickened juice through a straw may compromise the effectiveness of thickening and increase the risk of aspiration.
D. The client takes frequent breaks while eating:
This action is also appropriate. Clients with dysphagia may need to take breaks between bites to ensure safe and effective swallowing. It allows the client to pace themselves and reduces the risk of aspiration.

A. Case manager:

The nurse manager, in this context, is not functioning as a case manager. Case management typically involves coordinating and managing the overall care plan for a client over time, including coordination of resources and services.

B. Client care provider:

The nurse manager, in this scenario, is functioning as a client care provider. By observing the newly licensed nurse perform a straight catheterization, the nurse manager is directly involved in overseeing and ensuring the safety of the client care being provided.

C. Client advocate:

While advocacy for the client is a crucial role for all nurses, the specific action described (observing the procedure) is more aligned with the role of a client care provider. Advocacy involves supporting and safeguarding the client's rights and well-being, which can be done in various nursing roles.

D. Client educator:

The nurse manager is not functioning as a client educator in this specific situation. Client education involves providing information and instruction to the client to promote their understanding and participation in their care. The nurse manager's role here is more focused on direct observation and supervision of a clinical skill.