The nurse plans care for a client with a suspected stroke. What action should the nurse include to support airway protection?

A. Offering thin liquids to promote hydration can increase the risk of aspiration in clients with stroke-related dysphagia. Thin liquids are harder to control during swallowing, so thickened liquids are often recommended until swallowing ability is assessed. This option is unsafe for airway protection. B. Avoiding oral care is incorrect. Oral hygiene is crucial for stroke clients because poor oral care increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia from bacteria in the mouth. Oral care should be performed carefully and frequently. C. Encouraging the client to lie flat after meals increases the risk of aspiration, as gravity can allow food or liquids to enter the airway. This position should be avoided in clients with swallowing difficulties. D. Positioning the client upright during and after eating is the correct action. Maintaining an upright position (ideally 90 degrees in a chair or as upright as tolerated in bed) facilitates safe swallowing, reduces the risk of aspiration, and supports airway protection. Clients should remain upright for at least 30–60 minutes after meals to further reduce aspiration risk.