How should food be served to a patient with dysphagia?

For a patient with dysphagia, serving food in a manner that minimizes the risk of choking and ensures safe swallowing is crucial. Pureed or soft foods are easier to swallow compared to solid foods, which may be difficult or dangerous for someone with swallowing difficulties. Thickened liquids are also beneficial, as they can provide greater control during swallowing, reducing the risk of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway).

The recommendation to use small bites is important as it allows the patient to manage each portion effectively, preventing overwhelming them with too much food at once. This approach helps to ensure that the patient can enjoy their meal while minimizing the chances of complications associated with dysphagia, such as choking or aspiration pneumonia.

In contrast, solid foods can pose a significant danger for someone with dysphagia, and a liquid diet alone may not provide the necessary nutrition. Relying solely on medication instead of offering food is not a practical or healthy option, as patients need balanced nutrition to support overall health. Therefore, option B encompasses the necessary adaptations for safely feeding a patient with dysphagia.