28. The nurse aide is feeding a client while the client's head is tilted back. The client is at risk for:
Answer: D
The client is at risk for aspiration.
When the client's head is tilted back during feeding, it increases the likelihood of aspiration, which occurs when food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus.
A) edema
Edema refers to an accumulation of fluid in the tissues, which is unrelated to the positioning of the client's head during feeding. This option does not pertain to the immediate risks associated with feeding positions.
B) dyspnea
Dyspnea is the sensation of difficulty breathing. While it can be a concern for some patients, it is not directly caused by the head position during feeding. This response does not address the specific risks involved in swallowing.
C) dysphasia
Dysphasia is a disorder affecting speech and language ability, not the physical act of swallowing. Although dysphasia can influence a person’s ability to eat, it does not relate directly to the risk posed by the client's head being tilted back during feeding.
D) aspiration
Aspiration occurs when food, liquid, or other substances enter the airway, which can happen when the client's head is tilted back. This position can prevent the proper closure of the airway, leading to a higher risk of aspiration during feeding.
Conclusion
Aspiration is the most relevant risk associated with the client's head being tilted back during feeding, as it directly impacts the safety of swallowing. Other options, such as edema, dyspnea, and dysphasia, do not directly relate to the act of feeding in this context, making them incorrect in this scenario. Thus, the correct answer clearly highlights the critical concern for the client's safety.