Aspiration Prevention
What is aspiration?
Aspiration occurs when food, drink, or saliva gets into the lungs. Coughing or choking could be a sign of aspiration. However, aspiration can happen without any signs, this is called silent aspiration.
What can I do to prevent aspiration in hospital?
- Always keep the head of the bed in an upright position (30-45 degrees)
- Dangle your feet the evening after surgery
- While awake, do deep breathing exercises
- Sit in chair at all mealtimes, stay up 30 minutes after all meals
- Walk at least 3 times a day.
- Brush your teeth after each meal or 3 times per day
If you have nausea or vomiting please let your health care team know.
What can I expect from my care team and family to help prevent aspiration?
The team will remind you to do the above activities.
- Help the patient to sit in a chair at all mealtimes.
- Family members should:
- Be aware of aspiration prevention activities.
- Always ask the nurse if a patient is allowed to eat before feeding.
- Help patient to sit on the chair at the bedside for meals.
- Walk with patient each day.
