Health Care Assistant (HCA) Practice Exam · Question
A client in home care who recently had a stroke is having difficulty swallowing and frequently coughs during meals. What is the most appropriate action for the HCA to take NEXT?
Difficulty swallowing and coughing during meals are signs of dysphagia, which puts the client at high risk for aspiration pneumonia. The HCA must report these o
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Question: A client in home care who recently had a stroke is having difficulty swallowing and frequently coughs during meals. What is the most appropriate action for the HCA to take NEXT?
Answer options:
- Thicken all liquids as per the care plan and encourage slow eating. ✅ Report the observations to the supervising LPN/RN immediately.
- Offer smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees during and after meals.
Correct answer: Report the observations to the supervising LPN/RN immediately.
Explanation: Difficulty swallowing and coughing during meals are signs of dysphagia, which puts the client at high risk for aspiration pneumonia. The HCA must report these observations to the supervising nurse immediately as a change in condition requires a professional assessment and potential modification of the care plan.
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- When assisting a client who uses a wheelchair, what is the first step before transferring them?
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