What should be done if the patient fails the swallow screen?

When a patient fails a swallow screen, it is crucial to ensure their safety and prevent complications such as aspiration. Remaining NPO (nothing by mouth) until a speech-language pathologist (SLP) evaluation is the appropriate course of action. This ensures that the patient does not ingest anything orally which could lead to choking or aspiration, given their inability to swallow safely.

After the swallow screen, the next step involves a more comprehensive assessment by an SLP, who is trained to evaluate swallowing disorders and recommend an appropriate diet or feeding strategy based on the patient's specific needs. This careful approach helps ensure that the patient receives the best and safest care possible regarding their nutritional intake and swallowing capability.

Other options might suggest providing certain types of foods or fluids, which could compromise the patient’s safety immediately following a failed swallow screen. Relying on an SLP's expertise helps outline a recovery plan tailored to the patient's condition.