A charge nurse is observing a licensed practical nurse assist a client who has dysphagia while eating. Which of the following actions by the LPN should the charge nurse identify as providing safe care?
Places food on the stronger side of the client’s mouth
Positions the client at a 30 degree angle prior to eating
Instructs the client to hyperextend their neck when swallowing
Has the client sit upright for 20 min following meals
The Correct Answer is A
A. Places food on the stronger side of the client’s mouth: Placing food on the stronger side of the mouth helps the client chew and swallow more effectively and safely. This compensates for weakness on one side, reducing the risk of choking and aspiration.
B. Positions the client at a 30-degree angle prior to eating: A 30-degree angle is insufficient to reduce the risk of aspiration in clients with dysphagia. The client should be positioned in an upright sitting position (90 degrees) to facilitate safer swallowing and reduce the risk of choking or aspirating food.
C. Instructs the client to hyperextend their neck when swallowing: Hyperextending the neck (tilting the head back) can actually increase the risk of aspiration by opening the airway, making it easier for food or liquids to enter the lungs. The client should be encouraged to tuck the chin slightly when swallowing to protect the airway.
D. Has the client sit upright for 20 minutes following meals: While sitting upright after meals is beneficial for preventing reflux and aspiration, 20 minutes is not sufficient. The client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after meals to further reduce the risk of aspiration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Continue the medication dosages that relieve the client’s pain:
Opioids and benzodiazepines are commonly used for pain and anxiety management in terminally ill patients. Somnolence is an expected side effect and does not necessarily warrant withholding medication unless the client shows signs of respiratory depression.
B. Contact the provider about replacing the opioid with an NSAID: NSAIDs are not sufficient for severe pain in terminal illness. Opioids are the gold standard for palliative pain management, and switching to an NSAID would likely lead to uncontrolled pain and unnecessary suffering.
C. Administer the benzodiazepine but withhold the opioid: This would leave the client in severe pain, which is unethical in hospice care. Pain relief should not be withheld solely due to sedation.
D. Withhold the benzodiazepine but continue the opioid: Benzodiazepines are often used to relieve anxiety, dyspnea, and agitation in end-of-life care. Withholding it could cause increased distress for the client. Instead of discontinuing the medication, the nurse should monitor for respiratory depression and adjust doses only if necessary.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The client covers electrical cords with a throw rug: This action is unsafe. Placing a throw rug over electrical cords poses a fire hazard and could lead to tripping. Electrical cords should be secured and kept out of walkways to prevent accidents.
B. The client set the water heater to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit): The water heater should be set to a maximum temperature of 49°C (120°F) to prevent scalding injuries, which are a concern for older adults whose skin may be more sensitive. Temperatures higher than this increase the risk of burns.
C. The client has the refrigerator set to 7.2 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit): This temperature is too high. A refrigerator should be set at or below 4°C (40°F) to properly preserve food and prevent bacterial growth. Setting the refrigerator to 7.2°C (45°F) can result in foodborne illnesses.
D. The client has a standard height toilet seat in the bathroom: This may be inadequate for older adults, particularly those with mobility issues. A raised toilet seat may be recommended for better comfort and safety, as it reduces the risk of falls while sitting down or standing up.
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