Basic Nursing SkillsQuestion 110 of 200

Which observation during meal time should the CNA report to the nurse immediately?

a.Coughing, choking, wet/gurgly voice after swallowing, pocketing food in the cheek, or refusing meals for several days
b.Asking for a second glass of water partway through the meal
c.Eating slowly, finishing the tray, and asking for more rice
d.Wiping the mouth with a napkin between bites of food

Explanation

Coughing, choking, wet/gurgly ('wet') voice after swallowing, pocketing food, drooling, and unexplained weight loss are red flags for dysphagia and aspiration risk—the resident needs swallow evaluation (SLP) and likely diet modification. Several days of refused meals signal a clinical change requiring nurse assessment. Normal eating behaviors (b, c, d) are not concerning. Aspiration pneumonia is a leading cause of death in elders with dysphagia; timely reporting saves lives.

Law Reference: Fundamentals; aspiration precautions

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