A nurse is preparing to feed a newly admitted client who has dysphagia. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Rationale: A. Sit at or below the client's eye level during feedings: Positioning the nurse at or slightly below the client’s eye level promotes effective communication and allows close observation of swallowing. It helps the nurse monitor for signs of aspiration, coughing, or choking, which is critical in clients with dysphagia to ensure safety during meals. B. Instruct the client to lift her chin when swallowing: Clients with dysphagia should be taught to tuck the chin slightly toward the chest, not lift it, to protect the airway and facilitate safer swallowing. Lifting the chin increases the risk of aspiration and airway compromise. C. Talk with the client during her feeding: Talking while swallowing increases the risk of aspiration because it distracts the client and can disrupt coordinated swallowing. Silence and focused attention are recommended during feeding to ensure safe intake of food and liquids. D. Discourage the client from coughing during feedings: Coughing is a protective reflex that clears the airway if food or liquid enters the trachea. Discouraging it could increase the risk of aspiration and choking, making it unsafe to suppress this natural defense mechanism.