When a patient is at high risk for aspiration, what should NOT be done?

When caring for a patient at high risk for aspiration, it is crucial to prioritize their safety and comfort. Restraining a patient in a supine position—lying flat on their back—can significantly increase the risk of aspiration, as it allows fluids or food to more easily enter the airway rather than being swallowed properly. Keeping patients upright during meals, monitoring them closely, and providing thickened fluids are all strategies aimed at reducing the risk of aspiration. An upright position helps facilitate swallowing and minimizes the chance that anything will enter the airway. Monitoring closely ensures that any signs of aspiration can be caught early, while thickened fluids help patients swallow more effectively, reducing the risk of aspiration. These practices are essential components of caring for individuals who are vulnerable to aspiration, reinforcing the importance of positioning and dietary modifications in their care.