Liquids

Question 1

What is the most difficult swallowing task?

Answer 1

Swallowing liquids of thin consistency such as juice or water —> easily aspirated into lungs —> aspiration pneumonia

Question 2

When aspiration occurs?

Answer 2

When any materials (inc saliva) goes below level of the vocal folds

Question 3

What condition(s) that can develop aspiration pneumonia?

Answer 3

Individual’s pulmonary system, volume and pH of the aspirated bolus, potential pathogens present

Question 4

What is the greatest concern that pose the greatest risk for aspiration pneumonia?

Answer 4

Bacterial in oral cavity

Question 5

Mention 2 commercial thickeners!

Answer 5

Xanthan gum and modified food starches

Question 6

What benefits of xanthan gum?

Answer 6

tasteless, hold its thickening level over time, easy to mix, can be use for ketogenic diet

Question 7

What contraindication of xanthan gum?

Answer 7

not recommended for children < 1 year –> implicated the development of necrotizing enterocolitis

Question 8

Mention risks associated with thickening fluids!

Answer 8

Dehydration, drink aversion, difficulty clearing aspirated fluid

Question 9

Are there any replacement for commercial thickeners?

Answer 9

• Infant cereals, pudding, yoghurt –> blend well into fluid, provide calories & protein, less expensive
• Stage 2 babyfruit/applesauce –> added to juice to create a nectar/honey consistency, maintain good flavor, add calories, less expensive