What must the nurse do before assisting the patient with feeding?
A)Assess the patient's gag reflex.
B)Make sure that the consistency of the food is thin.
C)Remove the patient's dentures to prevent gagging.
D)Prepare the patient to be fed by a staff member.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assess the patient's ability to swallow and the patient's gag reflex.Some patients (those who have neurological diseases or who are handicapped)have a reduced gag reflex and/or dysphagia,increasing the risk for aspiration.Changes in the consistency of the diet (thickened liquids,pureed,soft),swallow training,or alternative means of nutrition are often necessary and require a speech therapist or a registered dietitian.If the patient wears dentures,check to ensure that they fit well and are clean.This ensures that the patient is able to chew food and swallow more normally.Patients with any level of independence should not be totally fed by hospital staff.A thorough understanding of the patient's physical and cognitive limitations alerts the nurse to the type of assistance the patient needs.

What Must the Nurse Do Before Assisting the Patient with Feeding