Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

What should be done if a patient has difficulty swallowing?

1. Encourage the patient to eat solid food only.

2. Provide thickened liquids to prevent choking.

3. Ensure the patient speaks while eating to promote swallowing.

4. Leave the patient unattended to eat meals.

The correct answer is: Provide thickened liquids to prevent choking.

When a patient experiences difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, providing thickened liquids is a crucial intervention. Thickening liquids can help facilitate safer swallowing by altering the consistency of fluids, making them easier to control and less likely to lead to choking. This approach reduces the risk of aspiration, where food or liquid enters the airway, which can result in serious complications such as pneumonia. Thickened liquids allow for better management of the swallowing process, enabling the patient to consume hydration and nutrition more safely. This modification is often recommended by healthcare professionals to protect patients with swallowing difficulties. In contrast, encouraging the patient to eat solid food without considering their condition can increase the risk of choking. Having the patient speak while eating can also divert their attention away from swallowing, which may further complicate their ability to eat safely. Leaving a patient unattended while they are eating poses a significant risk, as they may require assistance in case of choking or other complications related to dysphagia. Therefore, the practice of providing thickened liquids is the safest and most effective response in this situation.