How should you position a patient for a feeding to reduce aspiration risk?

• A. Lie flat
• B. Keep patient at 90 degrees all day
• C. Only elevate head slightly; position does not matter
• D. Sit the patient upright at about 45–60 degrees during meals and for a short time after

Answer: (D)

Positioning during feeding uses gravity to guide the bolus into the esophagus and keep the airway protected. Sitting the patient upright at about 45–60 degrees during meals and for a short time afterward provides that protective angle, helps the swallow work more effectively, and reduces the chance of food or fluids lingering and being aspirated. Lying flat removes this protective effect and increases aspiration risk, while holding someone at 90 degrees all day is impractical and unnecessary for most feeding situations. This mid-to-upper incline during and after meals is the best approach to minimize aspiration risk.