Which practice is part of feeding a dependent resident?

Which practice is part of feeding a dependent resident?

• A. Position the resident upright up to 60 degrees, protect clothing with a napkin or towel, feed in small amounts at a slow pace, and verbalize reasons to stop feeding.
• B. Feed in large bites quickly to finish the tray.
• C. Feed while the resident is lying flat.
• D. Feed without explaining reasons to stop feeding.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is safe feeding that minimizes choking and aspiration while keeping the resident comfortable and respectful. Positioning the resident upright at about 60 degrees helps the swallow work more effectively and reduces the risk that food will enter the airway. Protecting clothing with a napkin or towel keeps the resident clean and maintains dignity during meals. Feeding in small amounts at a slow pace allows the caregiver to monitor for any signs of trouble—such as coughing, throat clearing, or fatigue—and to pause if needed before more food is offered. Verbalizing reasons to stop feeding involves the resident in their care, supports clear communication, and enhances safety by ensuring they know they can and should speak up if anything feels off. In contrast, taking large bites quickly increases choking risk; feeding while the resident is lying flat raises aspiration risk; and not explaining why to stop removes important safety cues and can prevent timely reporting of difficulties. This combination aligns with best practices for feeding a dependent resident.

The main idea here is safe feeding that minimizes choking and aspiration while keeping the resident comfortable and respectful. Positioning the resident upright at about 60 degrees helps the swallow work more effectively and reduces the risk that food will enter the airway. Protecting clothing with a napkin or towel keeps the resident clean and maintains dignity during meals. Feeding in small amounts at a slow pace allows the caregiver to monitor for any signs of trouble—such as coughing, throat clearing, or fatigue—and to pause if needed before more food is offered. Verbalizing reasons to stop feeding involves the resident in their care, supports clear communication, and enhances safety by ensuring they know they can and should speak up if anything feels off. In contrast, taking large bites quickly increases choking risk; feeding while the resident is lying flat raises aspiration risk; and not explaining why to stop removes important safety cues and can prevent timely reporting of difficulties. This combination aligns with best practices for feeding a dependent resident.