Care Plans

Care Plan for Dysphagia

Category: Gastrointestinal

Assessment

Patient presents with difficulty swallowing, coughing during meals, and risk of aspiration.

Diagnosis

Risk for aspiration related to impaired swallowing.

Goals

Patient will maintain adequate nutritional status and be free from aspiration pneumonia. Patient will demonstrate safe swallowing techniques during meals.

Interventions

Monitor patient's ability to swallow and assess for signs of aspiration. Refer patient to a speech therapist for swallow evaluation and therapy. Educate patient and caregivers on safe swallowing techniques and dietary modifications. Provide small, frequent meals with appropriate consistency (thickened liquids, pureed foods).

Rationale

These interventions help prevent aspiration, ensure adequate nutrition, and promote safe swallowing.

Evaluation

Patient's nutritional status, swallowing ability, and risk of aspiration will be monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

⚠️ Educational Care Plan Notice

This care plan is for educational purposes only and represents general nursing concepts.

All care plans must be individualized based on:

  • Individual patient assessment and current condition
  • Healthcare provider orders and facility protocols
  • Current evidence-based practice guidelines
  • Nursing scope of practice in your jurisdiction

Do not use as direct patient care instructions. Always follow your facility's policies, physician orders, and professional nursing judgment.