* Serve one course at a time

* Serve beverages last, temper hot beverages

* Consider serving more finger foods

* Remove all condiments from the table

* Consider unbreakable dinnerware

* Serve bit-size pieces of food

* Large bibs and drop cloths help

* Monitor intake while eating and guard against choking.

* Serve low calorie snacks to those patients who insist on eating all day.

When Assisting Patient while eating:

* Use verbal cues to open mouth and swallow

* Watch for signs of swallowing on the throat

* Insure a clean mouth before the next bite

* Offer small sips of water between mouthfuls

* Feed at a speed comfortable with the patient

By Kathrine Martin ACSW

(c) copyright 1992