A nurse is providing dietary teaching for a client who has dysphagia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: Coughing between bites is not recommended because it can increase fatigue and does not effectively prevent aspiration. Instead, proper swallowing techniques and pacing are emphasized for clients with dysphagia. Choice B reason: Talking while eating increases the risk of aspiration because it disrupts the coordination of breathing and swallowing. This is unsafe for clients with dysphagia. Choice C reason: Taking sips of liquids while chewing food helps moisten the bolus, making swallowing easier and safer. It reduces the risk of food sticking in the throat and assists in clearing the airway. This is an appropriate teaching strategy for dysphagia management. Choice D reason: Tilting the head back when swallowing increases the risk of aspiration because it opens the airway. The recommended technique is often chin-tuck, which narrows the airway and directs food toward the esophagus. Therefore, tilting the head back is unsafe.