A nurse is caring for a client who had a stroke and has manifestations of dysphagia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse take?
Use liquids to clear food from the client's mouth.
Tilt the client's head backwards to facilitate swallowing.
Add a thickening agent to liquids.
Place the client in a semi-Fowler's position.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Using liquids to clear food from the client's mouth is not a safe intervention for dysphagia. Liquids can easily enter the airway and cause aspiration, which is the inhalation of food or fluids into the lungs. Aspiration can lead to pneumonia, respiratory distress, and death.
Choice B reason: Tilting the client's head backwards to facilitate swallowing is not a safe intervention for dysphagia. This position can also increase the risk of aspiration, as it opens the airway and allows food or fluids to flow into it.
Choice C reason: Adding a thickening agent to liquids is a safe and effective intervention for dysphagia. Thickened liquids are easier to swallow and control, as they move more slowly through the mouth and throat. They also reduce the risk of aspiration, as they are less likely to enter the airway.
Choice D reason: Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position is not a safe intervention for dysphagia. This position can also increase the risk of aspiration, as it lowers the head and neck and reduces the closure of the airway. A better position for dysphagia is upright or high-Fowler's, which elevates the head and neck and enhances the closure of the airway.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Checking gastric residuals every 8 hr is not frequent enough, as it can miss signs of delayed gastric emptying, which can cause aspiration, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal distension. Gastric residuals should be checked every 4 hr.
Choice B reason: Returning gastric contents if residual is less than 250 mL is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of infection, contamination, or electrolyte imbalance. Gastric contents should be discarded if residual is more than 100 mL.
Choice C reason: Measuring the pH of gastric residual every 24 hr is not necessary, as it does not reflect the effectiveness or tolerance of the feeding. The pH of gastric residual should be checked before each feeding or every 6 to 8 hr to confirm tube placement and prevent misconnection.
Choice D reason: Flushing the tube with 15 mL of water every 4 hr is a correct action, as it can prevent clogging, maintain patency, and clear the tube of formula residue. Water should also be used to flush the tube before and after each medication administration.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A pump is usually needed to administer intermittent tube feedings, as it can control the flow rate and volume of the formula. A pump can also prevent overfeeding, aspiration, or diarrhea.
Choice B reason: Administering feedings over 10 to 20 minutes is too fast, as it can cause abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, or dumping syndrome. Intermittent tube feedings should be administered over 30 to 60 minutes.
Choice C reason: Administering feedings while sleeping at night is not recommended, as it can increase the risk of aspiration, reflux, or infection. Intermittent tube feedings should be administered during waking hours and with the head of the bed elevated at least 30 degrees.
Choice D reason: Advancing the rate of feedings slowly is advisable, as it can help the body adjust to the formula and prevent intolerance or complications. The rate should be increased gradually until the desired goal is reached.
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