A nurse is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse identify as having an increased risk for aspiration while eating? (Select All that Apply.)
A. A client who has had prolonged diarrhea
B. A client who is 4 hr postoperative following a leg amputation under general anesthesia
C. A client who has had radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
D. A client who has lactose intolerance
E. A client who has had a stroke
Answer (2)
Clients at an increased risk for aspiration include those who are postoperative following general anesthesia, those who have had radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, and those who have had a stroke due to potential swallowing difficulties. These conditions can impair consciousness, swallowing reflexes, or neuromuscular control, leading to a higher risk of food or liquids entering the airway. The other listed conditions do not have a strong direct connection to aspiration risk. ;
Clients at increased risk for aspiration include those who are 4 hours postoperative from general anesthesia, those who had radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, and those who have had a stroke. These conditions can impair swallowing reflexes and muscle control, heightening the risk of food or liquids entering the airway. In contrast, prolonged diarrhea and lactose intolerance do not significantly increase aspiration risk.
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