Question

Which of the following nursing interventions will improve nutritional balance in a patient with Parkinson’s disease? A. Drinking fl uids aft er swallowing food. B. Cutting food into bite-sized pieces. C. Providing six small meals each day. D. Increasing time for eating meals.

Short answer

Answer C: Providing six small meals each day.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the Interventions

Each of the presented interventions has to be analyzed.\Define how drinking fluids after swallowing food, cutting food into bite-sized pieces, providing six small meals each day, and increasing time for eating meals might improve nutritional balance. Examine the symptoms and common difficulties faced by Parkinson's disease patients to best correspond the interventions.

Consider Parkinson's Disease Characteristics

Parkinson's disease often results in dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and slowed movements including slowed eating. It is therefore necessary to analyze which of the interventions might specifically help in addressing these issues.

Select the Best Intervention

Considering the characteristic symptoms of Parkinson's disease, the best intervention will likely be the one that assists with swallowing difficulties and slow eating, whilst promoting regular, balanced nutrition which is crucial for overall health and wellbeing.

Key concepts

Nutrition Management

Effective nutrition management is vital for patients with Parkinson's disease. Due to symptoms such as tremors and difficulty swallowing, maintaining a balanced diet can be challenging. Simple strategies can enhance dietary intake and overall nutrition.

Here are some practical interventions:

• Smaller, Frequent Meals: Offering six small meals a day helps maintain consistent energy levels and is easier to manage than three large meals.
• Bite-sized Pieces: Cutting food into smaller, manageable sizes can help prevent choking and make eating less daunting.

By adopting these interventions, patients can achieve better nutritional balance and maintain their strength, which is crucial for managing Parkinson's disease effectively.

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It is caused by the degeneration of neurons in the brain that produce dopamine.

Common symptoms include:

• Tremors
• Stiffness
• Slowed movements
• Balance problems

These symptoms lead to challenges in daily activities, including eating and swallowing, making tailored nutritional interventions essential. Understanding these characteristics helps in creating better care plans specifically addressing these hurdles.

Swallowing Difficulties

Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, are a common complication for individuals with Parkinson's disease. It can lead to serious risks like choking or aspiration pneumonia if not managed properly.

To assist with these difficulties:

• Modify Food Textures: Soft, pureed, or well-moistened foods can be easier to swallow.
• Take Small Bites and Sips: Encouraging small bites of food and to sip fluids afterward can help prevent choking.

These adaptations can greatly enhance safety and comfort during meals, ensuring that patients receive adequate nutrition without the risk.

Patient Care

Overall patient care for those with Parkinson's disease includes addressing not only their nutritional needs but also monitoring their mental and physical health.

Key aspects include:

• Creating Supportive Environment: Ensure the dining area is calm to minimize distractions, which helps individuals focus better on eating.
• Allow Extra Time: Providing additional time for meals can accommodate slowed eating speeds.
• Interdisciplinary Care: Collaborating with dietitians, speech therapists, and physical therapists can create a comprehensive care plan tailor-fitted to individual needs.

This holistic approach ensures all aspects of a patient's well-being are addressed, improving their quality of life significantly.