A client is admitted with facial droop, slurred speech, and right arm weakness. The provider prescribes oral aspirin after imaging. Complete the statement.
Drop-down Cloze
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Clients with possible stroke are at risk for dysphagia and aspiration. Before oral medications, food, or fluids are given, the nurse should keep the client NPO until a dysphagia or swallow screen is completed according to facility protocol. Oral aspirin should not be given before swallowing safety is established.
Clinical Judgment Stroke care protects the brain and the airway; oral therapy waits until swallowing safety is checked.
Memory Tip Stroke plus mouth intake equals swallow screen first.
KR vs US NCLEX commonly tests aspiration prevention before oral medication administration after stroke symptoms.
Clinical Practice GuideStroke quality measures and dysphagia guidance support screening for swallowing safety before oral intake, including food, fluids, or medication.
CautionCrushing or giving oral medication before screening can still create aspiration risk.
Dysphagia — Difficulty swallowing that increases aspiration and nutrition risk.
NPO — Nothing by mouth; no oral food, fluids, or medications until allowed.
Aspiration — Entry of material into the airway, which can cause choking or pneumonia.