A nurse is caring for a client who has dysphagia following a stroke. The nurse should recommend a referral to which of the following members of the interdisciplinary team?

A. Speech therapist: A speech therapist specializes in assessing swallowing ability and designing strategies to reduce aspiration risk in clients with dysphagia. They provide exercises, positioning techniques, and dietary modifications to help the client swallow more safely. This makes them the most appropriate referral after a stroke affecting swallowing. B. Respiratory therapist: A respiratory therapist focuses on airway management, oxygen therapy, and breathing treatments rather than evaluating swallowing. While they may assist if aspiration leads to respiratory complications, they are not responsible for diagnosing or treating dysphagia. C. Occupational therapist: An occupational therapist helps clients regain independence with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and feeding. Although they may address self-feeding techniques, they do not evaluate the physiologic swallowing mechanism itself. Dysphagia requires specialized assessment beyond the OT role. D. Physical therapist: A physical therapist assists with mobility, balance, and strength restoration following a stroke. Their interventions target physical function rather than swallowing. They are not qualified to assess or treat dysphagia, so they are not the appropriate referral for this issue.