What should a nursing assistant do when assisting residents who have had a stroke?

When assisting residents who have had a stroke, monitoring for signs of choking is crucially important. After a stroke, individuals may experience difficulties with swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. This increases the risk of food or liquids entering the airway instead of the esophagus, leading to choking or aspiration pneumonia. By being vigilant for signs of choking, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, or a change in facial color, the nursing assistant can provide immediate assistance or prevent further complications.

The other choices involve techniques that can exacerbate the risks associated with a stroke. For instance, placing food in the weaker side of the mouth may not only lead to difficulty with chewing and swallowing but could also increase the risk of choking. Likewise, encouraging another bite before the resident has adequately swallowed the previous bite can overwhelm their ability to manage food safely. Finally, promoting large bites can further hinder the person’s ability to chew and swallow effectively, thereby increasing the risk of choking and aspiration. It is vital for nursing assistants to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to support residents with post-stroke needs effectively.