Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is the appropriate nursing action for an elderly client presenting with symptoms of dysphagia?

1. Administer thickened liquids

2. Encourage rapid eating

3. Limit hydration

4. Implement a clear liquid diet

The correct answer is: Administer thickened liquids

When an elderly client shows symptoms of dysphagia, the appropriate nursing action is to administer thickened liquids. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can lead to aspiration, which is the inhalation of food or liquids into the lungs, potentially causing serious complications like pneumonia. Thickened liquids can help improve swallowing by changing the consistency and making it easier for the client to control the intake of fluids, thereby reducing the risk of aspiration. In this context, encouraging rapid eating would exacerbate the swallowing difficulties, as eating too quickly may lead to choking or aspiration. Limiting hydration is counterproductive, as hydration is crucial for overall health and can become more challenging when fluids are difficult to swallow. A clear liquid diet may not be appropriate since it often includes thinner fluids that could increase the risk of aspiration for someone with dysphagia.