A nurse in a long-term care facility is managing the care of an older adult client who has difficulty swallowing and occasional choking during meals. The nurse should initiate a referral to which of the following members of the interprofessional care team?

A. Speech-language pathologist: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) specialize in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders (dysphagia). They can assess the client’s swallowing ability, recommend appropriate diet modifications, and provide strategies to reduce choking risk. B. Social worker: Social workers provide support for psychosocial needs, discharge planning, and community resources, but they do not assess or manage swallowing difficulties. Referral to a social worker may be appropriate for broader care needs but not for dysphagia. C. Respiratory therapist: Respiratory therapists focus on airway management, ventilation, and pulmonary function. While they can assist if aspiration leads to respiratory complications, they do not primarily assess swallowing function. D. Occupational therapist: Occupational therapists help clients with activities of daily living and adaptive equipment. Although they may assist with feeding techniques or positioning, they are not specialized in assessing or treating swallowing disorders.