What should the CNA do after using a spoon to feed the resident?

• A. Leave area around resident's mouth clean & dry
• B. Remove clothing protector & tidy area up
• C. Check if resident swallowed before offering next bite
• D. Offer fluids during feeding every 3 bites

Answer: (C)

Safety during feeding relies on confirming the resident can swallow each bite before adding more. After giving a spoonful, pause and watch for swallowing to occur, because the swallow protects the airway. If the resident swallows, you may proceed with the next bite; if you see coughing or a failure to swallow, stop, clear the mouth if needed, and wait for a safe swallow before continuing, following the care plan. This step directly reduces the risk of choking and aspiration. Cleaning the area around the mouth and tidying up are important post-feeding tasks, and fluids or other steps should be done according to the resident’s plan, but the immediate priority after each bite is to check that swallowing has occurred.