What should the CNA do after applying a clothing protector before feeding?

• A. Maintain eye level contact with resident while feeding
• B. Offer fluid to moisten mouth before offering food
• C. Use spoon to feed
• D. Offer fluids during feeding every 3 bites

Answer: (B)

Moistening the mouth before feeding helps prepare the swallowing mechanism. A small sip of fluid lubricates the lips and oral surfaces, makes swallowing easier, and can reduce the risk of choking if the mouth is dry or saliva is limited. After securing a clothing protector, this step sets the resident up for a smoother, safer start to the meal.

While staying at eye level and continuing gentle communication is important during feeding, and using a spoon is a common feeding method, those actions aren’t the immediate step addressed by this scenario. Similarly, offering fluids at a fixed interval (like every few bites) isn’t a universal rule and isn’t the specific action described here.