How to Feed a Patient Comfortably
Preparing a Client for Meal time :
- Mealtime is a very important event.
- Make it an enjoyable and pleasant experience.
- See that the meal is served in as attractive manner and freshly prepared as possible.
- Keep in mind all of the things that need to be done for each client before and after each meal.
Before Meal Care:
- Wash the client’s hands
- Before the meal, offer the bedpan or urinal or assist/ remind the client to go to the bathroom.
- Provide oral care (dentures)
- Assist the client to the dinning table, or in bed
- Convenient position
- Protect clothing with napkin, towel, or clothing protector.
Serving Meals
- Serve meals promptly so food temperature is maintained.
- Hot food should be served hot and cold foods served cold
- Assist depending upon the type of feed
After-Meal Care :
- When the client has finished eating remove the dishes and napkin, towel or clothing.
- Assist the client to wash his hands and face.
- Assist with or remind the client of oral care.
- Note how much and what the client eats.
Caution:
- CLIENTS SHOULD BE KEPT IN UPRIGHT POSITION FOR 1 HOUR AFTER MEALS TO MINIMIZE REFLUX INTO THE ESOPHAGUS (HEARTBURN).
- IF A CLIENT IS COMATOSE, UNCONSCIOUS, OR UNRESPONSIVE, DO NOT GIVE ORAL LIQUIDS OR FOOD. UNCONSCIOUS CLIENTS OFTEN RECEIVE NUTRITION BY ANOTHER METHOD (TUBE FEEDING
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