What action helps to adequately manage a patient who is coughing excessively and at risk for aspiration?

Monitoring a patient's swallowing abilities is crucial for managing a patient who is coughing excessively and at risk for aspiration. By assessing their swallowing function, healthcare providers can identify any signs of difficulty or dysfunction, which is essential in implementing appropriate interventions. For instance, knowing the patient’s swallowing capabilities allows the caregiver to modify food consistency, meal plans, and feeding techniques to enhance safety and minimize the risk of aspiration. This proactive approach is key to preventing complications such as aspiration pneumonia and ensuring that the patient can safely consume food and liquids.

In contrast, encouraging fast eating is counterproductive as it can lead to quicker intake of food that may overwhelm the patient’s ability to swallow safely. Placing the patient in a reclining position also increases the risk of aspiration, as proper positioning while eating—typically upright—is fundamental in minimizing that risk. Providing thickened liquids can be beneficial for some patients, but it may not be appropriate for everyone. Thus, monitoring swallowing abilities ensures that any interventions, including dietary changes, are tailored to the individual's needs and capabilities.