5.22 Skills Checklist: Preparing Clients for Meals and Assisting With Feeding

1. Gather Supplies: Clothing protector, meal, diet card, eating utensils, sanitizer or soapy and wet washcloths
2. Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:
   • Knock on the resident’s door unless they are in the dining room.
   • Perform hand hygiene.
   • Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
   • Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
   • Explain the procedure to the resident.
3. Procedure Steps:
   • Verify the name on the diet card matches the resident.
   • Verify the diet, diet texture, and liquid consistency matches the diet card.
   • Position the resident in an upright position, at least 45 degrees.
   • Place a clothing protector on the resident if desired (e.g., a paper or cloth towel or a large napkin).
   • Ask the resident if they would like oral care before eating.
   • Assist the resident to clean their hands before feeding using sanitizer or soapy and wet washcloths.
   • Position yourself at eye level facing the resident.
   • Describe the foods and fluids being offered to the resident.
   • Offer small amounts of food at a reasonable rate.
   • Offer fluids frequently.
   • Allow the resident time to chew and swallow.
   • Wipe the resident’s face whenever necessary.
   • Continue to alternate foods and fluids until the resident indicates they are full.
   • Clean the resident’s face and hands.
   • Ask the resident if they would like oral care.
   • Leave the resident with their head elevated at least 30 degrees.

4. Post-Procedure Steps:

• • Perform hand hygiene.
  • Record the intake as a percentage of total solid food eaten.
  • Record the sum of estimated fluid intakes in mL or cc.
  • Check for resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed.
  • If in the resident’s room, ensure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
  • Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
  • Open the door and privacy curtain.
  • Perform hand hygiene.
  • Document and report any feeding issues or changes noted with the resident.