Which action should be done first when feeding a client who cannot feed themselves?

Which action should be done first when feeding a client who cannot feed themselves?

• A. Sit up 75-90 degrees
• B. Ask for name
• C. Place on bib + Wash their hands + get napkin
• D. Wipe mouth + hands

Answer: (B)

Identifying the client before starting the feeding task is essential. Verifying the person you’re helping ensures you’re applying the correct diet plan, allergies, and instructions, and it prevents feeding the wrong resident. Asking for the client’s name is the direct, quickest way to establish who you’re caring for and to verify their identity against the chart or wristband. After confirming identity, you would then proceed with the safe feeding steps—positioning the client upright to reduce choking risk, performing hand hygiene, and gathering supplies—followed by the actual feeding and eventual mouth/hands cleanup. Without first confirming who the resident is, the other steps could be applied to the wrong person, which compromises safety and care.

Identifying the client before starting the feeding task is essential. Verifying the person you’re helping ensures you’re applying the correct diet plan, allergies, and instructions, and it prevents feeding the wrong resident. Asking for the client’s name is the direct, quickest way to establish who you’re caring for and to verify their identity against the chart or wristband. After confirming identity, you would then proceed with the safe feeding steps—positioning the client upright to reduce choking risk, performing hand hygiene, and gathering supplies—followed by the actual feeding and eventual mouth/hands cleanup. Without first confirming who the resident is, the other steps could be applied to the wrong person, which compromises safety and care.