A structured approach designed by nurses to address difficulties in a patient’s ability to safely and effectively move food or liquid from the mouth to the stomach. This encompasses assessment, intervention, and ongoing evaluation to minimize the risk of aspiration, maintain adequate nutrition and hydration, and improve the patient’s quality of life. For example, it would detail specific strategies for modifying food textures, positioning the patient during meals, and implementing swallowing exercises.
Such a framework is essential for mitigating potential complications associated with dysphagia, such as pneumonia, malnutrition, and dehydration. Its implementation can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital readmission rates. Historically, these plans have evolved alongside advancements in diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions, reflecting a growing understanding of the complex physiological processes involved in deglutition.
