Certified Medical Assistant Exam Prep

Answer: C -A client with dysphagia should not always feed herself. Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing. The client is never left alone to eat because this can result to aspiration, wherein food enters the airway and obstructs the lungs. In clients with dysphagia, consistency in food thickness (dysphagia diet) and positioning the client in Fowler’s or semi-Fowler’s position are necessary to prevent aspiration. Prior to giving the meal, clients need to eliminate (to prevent interruptions) and be given oral care (to promote satiety of the food intake).