Editing Fundamentals of Nursing – LPN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 12==
Which actions should the licensed practical nurse take when assisting a patient with dysphagia to eat? '''Select all that apply.'''
# Position the patient fully upright at 90 degrees during the meal.
# Offer large bites to shorten the length of the meal.
# Check for food pocketed in the cheeks during and after the meal.
# Keep the patient upright for at least 30 minutes after eating.
# Have the patient talk during swallowing to confirm the airway is clear.
# Minimize distractions and allow rest before the meal.

'''Answer:''' 1, 3, 4, and 6.

''Rationale:'' Full upright positioning, small bites, checking for pocketing, remaining upright after the meal, and a calm unhurried environment all reduce aspiration risk. Fatigue significantly worsens swallowing safety, so rest before eating matters. Option 2 is unsafe, because large bites overwhelm the impaired swallow. Option 5 is unsafe, because talking while swallowing opens the airway at exactly the wrong moment and promotes aspiration.