Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 74%
Simulated
A client 80 years of age experienced dysphagia (impaired swallowing) in the weeks following a recent stroke,but the care team wishes to now begin introducing minced and pureed food. How should the nurse best position the client?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Semi-Fowlers. This position is optimal for clients with dysphagia as it helps prevent aspiration during swallowing by facilitating proper head and neck alignment. Semi-Fowlers position allows for easier passage of food from the mouth to the esophagus due to gravity, reducing the risk of choking or aspiration. Protective Supine (A) may increase the risk of aspiration, while Low-Fowlers (C) and Fowlers (D) may not provide adequate support for safe swallowing in this specific case.