The home health nurse makes a home visit to a client with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The client is sitting upright while feeding themself and coughs frequently during the meal. Which action should the nurse implement?

A. Recommend the use of supplemental liquid feedings: Liquid feedings might eventually be needed if swallowing becomes too difficult, but immediate action should focus on preventing aspiration during meals rather than altering the diet. B. Assist the client to lie down and turn to the side: Lying down during eating increases the risk of aspiration and should be avoided; an upright position is essential to maintain airway protection during swallowing. C. Encourage the use of assistive feeding devices: Assistive devices help compensate for weakness in the hands and arms but do not directly address the swallowing difficulties that are causing coughing during meals. D. Demonstrate use of a tucked-chin position while eating: Tucking the chin while swallowing helps protect the airway by closing it off, reducing the risk of aspiration, and is an immediate, practical strategy to enhance safe swallowing in ALS clients.