Dysphagia

PROBLEM:

Patient is at risk of complications due to Dysphagia.

GOAL:

Patient will not have episodes of aspiration or choking x 30 days.

PLAN/APPROACH:

1. Speech Therapy/Evaluation and Treatment:

   • Collaborate with a speech therapist to assess the patient's swallowing function.
   • Implement speech therapy interventions based on the therapist's recommendations.
   • Regularly review progress and adjust therapy as needed.

2. Encourage Participation in Speech Therapy:

   • Empower the patient to actively engage in speech therapy exercises.
   • Motivate the patient to work on improving their swallowing function.

3. Patient and/or Family Education:

   • Educate the patient and their family about dysphagia, its risks, and preventive measures.
   • Provide guidance on proper eating techniques and postures to reduce the risk of aspiration.

4. Supervision During Meals:

   • Assign nursing staff to supervise the patient during meals.
   • Ensure that the patient eats at a pace and in a manner that minimizes the risk of choking.

5. Elevate Head of Bed:

   • Keep the head of the patient's bed elevated during meals and for a specified time afterward.
   • This position helps prevent reflux and aspiration during swallowing.

6. Mechanically Altered Diet:

   • Collaborate with the dietitian to create a mechanically altered diet that suits the patient's swallowing ability.
   • Ensure that food textures are appropriate to minimize the risk of aspiration.