Where should a nurse position themselves while feeding a client with dysphagia?

Positioning the nurse at or below the client’s eye level during feeding is crucial for effective communication and reducing anxiety for clients with dysphagia. This positioning fosters a more personal interaction between the nurse and the client, allowing for better eye contact and facilitating a sense of comfort and safety.

Clients who have difficulty swallowing often experience fear or anxiety related to their condition, and being at eye level can help to reassure them. Additionally, this position allows the nurse to monitor the client closely for any signs of difficulty or aspiration during the feeding process, as well as to assist more effectively with cues and prompts.

By being at or below the client’s eye level, the nurse can encourage the client to focus on the task of eating rather than being distracted or overwhelmed by an imposing presence above them. This approach is essential in enhancing the client's confidence and reducing the risk of choking or other complications.