# A client arrives with right-sided weakness and slurred speech. Which action should the nurse take before offering anything by mouth?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=397164&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Changes in Vital Signs  
> category: ROR

## Question

A client arrives with right-sided weakness and slurred speech. Which action should the nurse take before offering anything by mouth?

## Option

1. Ask the client to choose a preferred meal.
2. Administer an oral antiplatelet medication immediately.
3. Complete or obtain the prescribed swallow screening. **✔ Correct answer**
4. Place the client in a supine position for comfort.

**Correct answer: 3**

## Explanation

A client with possible stroke is at risk for dysphagia and aspiration. Swallow screening should occur before oral intake or oral medications when indicated by protocol. Supine positioning can worsen aspiration risk.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Stroke dysphagia screening.

Memory Tip
Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.

KR vs US
NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
For Stroke dysphagia screening, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.

Caution
Do not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.

## Key concepts

- **Stroke** — An acute neurologic deficit caused by interrupted blood flow or bleeding in the brain.
- **Dysphagia** — Difficulty swallowing that can increase aspiration risk.
- **Aspiration** — Entry of food, fluid, or secretions into the airway.

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