FEEDING A HELPLESS PATIENT

  1. Explain procedure to patient and consider the likes and dislikes.
  2. Inform patient about meal to be served to stimulate his/her appetite.
  3. Ensure clean atmosphere, clear all bed pans, urinals and vomit bowls and ensure brightness in the room.
  4. Put patient in a comfortable position if patient’s condition would allow it.
  5. Put patient in a sitting up position an arrange pillows on the back rest to support him/her or in the lying position, elevate the head end of the bed.
  6. Place prepared tray on the bed table or patient’s locker.
  7. Give patient a mouthwash.
  8. Wash patient’s hands with soap and water and dry with a clean towel.
  9. Wash and dry hands before serving meals (the nurse).
  10. Place napkin/serviette across the chest to protect patient’s clothing.
  11. Sit on a chair at the bedside of the patient if convenient to make him/her feel relaxed.
  12. Cut fed into bite sizes and feed patient with levelled spoonful a little at a time.
  13. Allow patient enough time to chew and swallow.
  14. Observe the rate at which the patient eats.
  15. Co-ordinate the opening of the mouth and introduction of food into the mouth.
  16. Place the spoon or fork accurately into the mouth i.e. not too far back to produce gagging.
  17. Serve sips of water in between feeding with a spoon or flexible straw.
  18. Clean or wipe patient’s mouth and chin during and after the meal when necessary.
  19. Serve water, rinse mouth, remove used napkin/serviette and clear tray.
  20. Congratulate patient for efforts made in eating, wash and dry his or hand with a towel.
  21. Encourage patient to comment on the food served.
  22. Make patient comfortable.
  23. Wash and dry hands (nurse).
  24. Document procedure in the nurses’ notes and/or fluid intake and output chart if applicable.

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