Question

Clients with dysphagia may drink water 30 minutes before or after meals. The rationale is that small amounts of water, when aspirated, do not contribute to aspiration pneumonia, provided that good oral hygiene is practiced prior to drinking each time. What is the key reason for allowing this practice?

Answer 1

The key reason for allowing clients with dysphagia to drink water 30 minutes before or after meals is that small amounts of water, when aspirated, do not contribute to aspiration pneumonia, provided that good oral hygiene is practiced prior to drinking each time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The key reason for allowing clients with dysphagia to drink water 30 minutes before or after meals is that small amounts of water, when aspirated, do not contribute to aspiration pneumonia, provided that good oral hygiene is practiced prior to drinking each time.This is because, in the early stages of drowning, very little water enters the lungs. A small amount of water entering the trachea causes a muscular spasm in the larynx that seals the airway and prevents the passage of water into the lungs.By practicing good oral hygiene and ensuring that only small amounts of water are consumed, the risk of aspiration pneumonia can be minimized.