Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

How can a nursing assistant assist a resident who has difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)?

1. Offer large bites of food to encourage quick chewing

2. Provide foods with mixed textures

3. Encourage the resident to eat quickly to avoid discomfort

4. Use adaptive utensils, assist with positioning, and offer small, manageable portions

The correct answer is: Use adaptive utensils, assist with positioning, and offer small, manageable portions

The best approach for assisting a resident with dysphagia is to use adaptive utensils, assist with positioning, and offer small, manageable portions. This method is effective because individuals with swallowing difficulties often benefit from modifications that make eating safer and more manageable. Using adaptive utensils can help the resident grip tools more easily, promoting independence and reducing the risk of spills. Proper positioning is crucial as it enhances swallowing, helping the resident to be more comfortable and reducing the likelihood of aspiration. Offering small, manageable portions allows the resident to control the amount of food they are swallowing at one time, decreasing the risk of choking and making the entire process more comfortable. The other options would not be suitable. Larger bites and mixed textures can increase the chances of choking or aspiration, while encouraging a quick eating pace can lead to distress or swallowing difficulties, compromising safety and well-being.