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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Unequal pupils: Unequal pupils (anisocoria) can indicate a potential neurological issue, such as intracranial pressure or brain injury, especially after trauma. It is a significant finding requiring further evaluation.
B. Pupil reaction quick: Quick pupil reaction is typically normal and indicates proper neurological function, not a concern.
C. Pinpoint pupils: Pinpoint pupils can indicate opioid overdose or certain types of brainstem injury and should be evaluated as a potential neurological concern.
D. Absence of pupillary response: Absence of pupillary response to light can be a serious neurological concern, indicating severe brain injury or significant neurological compromise.
E. Pupil reacts to light: A pupil that reacts to light is a normal finding and indicates proper neurological function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Diarrhea: Opiates typically cause constipation, not diarrhea. Diarrhea is not a common finding with opiate use.
B. Pinpoint-sized pupils: Opiates commonly cause miosis, or pinpoint pupils. This is a classic sign of opiate use and is important for assessment.
C. Weight gain: Opiate use is not typically associated with weight gain; in fact, it can sometimes lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.
D. Bulimia: Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating and purging. It is not a typical effect of opiate use.
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