Nurse Aide Practice Exam

Raising the head of the bed when feeding a resident who is lying down primarily serves to avoid aspiration. Aspiration occurs when food, liquid, or other substances are inhaled into the airway instead of being swallowed into the esophagus. When a person is in a supine (lying flat) position, the risk of aspiration increases because gravity is not assisting in the movement of food down the esophagus. By elevating the head of the bed, the alignment of the throat and esophagus is improved, making it easier and safer for the resident to swallow. This position helps ensure that the food travels down safely and minimizes the chance of it entering the airway, which could lead to serious complications such as choking or aspiration pneumonia. While improving digestion, increasing comfort, and facilitating better communication may also be benefits of an elevated position, the primary concern during feeding is ensuring the resident's safety by preventing aspiration.