Safe Feeding

It is important to sit someone with dysphagia at least 60 degrees upright during feeding.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Upright sitting at minimum 60 degrees promotes safe swallowing function and decreases the risk of aspiration (food entering airway or lungs)

Which of the following is NOT Safe Feeding?

• Feed slowly

• Ensure resident/ patient head is not tilted back

• No need to wait for resident to swallow. Continue feeding to save time

• Observe for any choking

Answer explanation

Slowing down with pauses during meal feeding allows time for people with swallowing difficulties to take their time to swallow and prevent choking/ aspiration.

How do we swallow?

• Through complex sequence of muscle movements

• Precise coordination and control of fluids and food intakes

• No food/fluids in windpipe

• All of the above

Which of the following is NOT a sign of abnormal swallowing?

• Choking

• Coughing

• Pain during swallowing

• No food in windpipe

Answer explanation

There should be no food in windpipe. Food should enter the food pipe (esophagus) to the stomach. Food in windpipe can result in pneumonia aspiration.

Why is there a need to modify diets for residents with abnormal swallowing?

• To ensure sufficient calories and fluids are taken in to nourish the body

• To promote choking

• To allow food and liquid to get into the airway

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Consuming texture-modified foods and thickened beverages allows more time for people with dysphagia (abnormal swallowing) to swallow their food properly. Modified diets provide a safe, nutrient-rich mealtime experience for patients using foods and drinks that are easy to swallow, which in turn can aid in proper nutrition and overall wellness.