The nurse is caring for a client who has dysphagia caused by systemic sclerosis. What is the best intervention for the nurse to implement for this client?
a. Encourage frequent, high-protein, easy to swallow foods.
b. Teach the client to lie flat after meals to prevent reflux.
c. Thicken liquids to a nectar or honey con-sistency.
d. Have the client hyperextend his or her neck while swallowing.
A
Clients with dysphagia frequently have esophageal motility problems, and swallowing becomes difficult. This, combined with malabsorption, leads to a malnourished client. Frequent small meals consisting of high-protein and easy to swallow foods are best. Clients should eat only in an upright position to reduce choking. Thickening liquids may help, but this does not address the malnutrition. Hyperextending the neck may help, but specific techniques should be determined by a swallowing study.
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