17. Which of the following is a sign that a client is having difficulty swallowing?
Answer: C
Frequent coughing is a sign that a client is having difficulty swallowing.
Frequent coughing can indicate that a client is struggling with swallowing, as it may suggest that food or liquid is entering the airway instead of the esophagus. This reflex action can occur when a person has difficulty managing the swallowing process.
A) Increased appetite
Increased appetite does not indicate difficulty swallowing. It typically suggests that a person is consuming more food, which is not associated with swallowing problems. In fact, individuals experiencing swallowing difficulties may have a reduced appetite due to the discomfort or fear of choking.
B) Occasional coughing
Occasional coughing may occur for various benign reasons, such as clearing the throat. While it can be a minor sign of swallowing issues, it is not definitive. Frequent coughing, on the other hand, is more indicative of a significant problem and should not be overlooked.
C) Frequent coughing
Frequent coughing is a clear sign that a client may be experiencing difficulty swallowing. This symptom often arises when food or liquid is aspirated into the airway, prompting a cough reflex to clear the airway and prevent choking. It is a critical indicator that warrants further assessment.
D) Requests for textured foods
Requests for textured foods can occur for various reasons, including personal preference or dietary needs, and do not necessarily indicate difficulty swallowing. While some clients with swallowing issues might prefer textured foods, this alone is not a reliable sign of swallowing difficulties without additional symptoms like coughing.
Conclusion
Frequent coughing is a definitive indicator of swallowing difficulties, as it suggests that the client is at risk of aspiration. In contrast, options such as increased appetite and requests for textured foods do not provide any evidence of swallowing problems, while occasional coughing lacks the consistency needed to be a reliable sign. Therefore, frequent coughing stands out as the key sign to monitor in assessing swallowing difficulties.