Notes

Dysphagia and Aspiration

If someone has difficulty swallowing, it is referred to as dysphagia. If untreated, dysphagia can lead to serious conditions such as malnutrition, pneumonia, choking and even death.

Aspiration is the word used to describe when fluids or food particles are misdirected into the lungs. You probably refer to it as “going down the wrong way.”

Aspiration can be silent or easy to hear. If untreated, it can lead to aspiration pneumonia which can be fatal.

Choking is a breathing emergency that happens when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked.

A variety of medical conditions can increase the risk that a resident will aspirate or choke including:
◾Stroke
◾Dementia
◾Multiple Sclerosis
◾Parkinson’s Disease
◾Huntington’s Disease
◾Cerebral Palsy and Seizure Disorders, to name a few.
In order to prevent choking, it is important to be aware of the warning signs that someone is experiencing swallowing difficulties.

Watch for:
◾refusal to eat or drink,
◾slow eating,
◾pocketing of food in the mouth or cheeks,
◾excessive chewing,
◾coughing,
◾frequent throat clearing, or a
◾gurgled or wet voice.
****airway blockage or aspiration.****
Our goal is to do everything possible to prevent choking from happening.

You can help to prevent choking by watching for the warning signs we reviewed earlier and reporting your concerns to your supervisor.

A professional who is trained in swallowing such as a dietitian, occupational therapist or physician should be made aware and will look for possible solutions.

Once recommendations are made, it is important you follow them. For instance, it is important that you ensure proper positioning, provide the appropriate food and fluid consistency and perform proper oral care.