Unlicensed assistive personnel are assigned the task of feeding breakf

Unlicensed assistive personnel are assigned the task of feeding breakfast to older clients with alterations in mobility and orientation. What instruction should the nurse include in this delegation?

1. Breakfast should be completed quickly so that baths may begin.
2. Give fluids before and after each bite of solid foods.
3. Stand to the left of right-handed clients during feeding.
4. Engage the client in conversation during the meal.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: It may well take over 45 minutes to feed these clients in an unhurried manner.
Rationale 2: Fluids should be offered when the client requests fluids, or after three to four bites of food.
Rationale 3: The personnel should sit while feeding the client to convey a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.
Rationale 4: Of the options given, the best answer is to engage the client in conversation during the meal. This makes the mealtime pleasant and encourages socialization as well as appetite.