Your patient

Getting ready to help your patient

• Alertness – is the patient awake, alert and ready to eat? Ask healthcare assistant to help if unsure
• Position in bed or chair. Are they sitting comfortably? Always ask healthcare assistant to help. Do not move patients yourself.
• Ensure table is clear and uncluttered
• Ensure correct cutlery / condiments are available
• Table positioning – height / over bed or in front of chair
• Is there a drink available – does it need to be thickened? Ask healthcare assistant to help
• Offer your patient an opportunity to wash their hands
• Sit at the patient’s level – get a chair
• Check the food that arrives is what was requested and what the patient wants to eat
• Show and tell them about the meal.

Feeding assistance

• Small amounts on fork / spoon at a time
• Let the patient see what you are going to give them
• Offer food to lips – is the temperature ok?
• Give them enough time to chew and swallow
• Ask / check if their mouth is clear before giving more
• Offer a drink every few mouthfuls if preferable
• Look out for signs of eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties.

After the meal

• Ensure the patient’s hands and mouth are clean
• Check if their mouth is clear of food – any food leftover?
• Tell the nurse or support worker what the patient has eaten / drank
• Document on the food / drink chart what the patient has eaten and drank
• Leave a snack or drink within reach

If you are able to stay after the mealtime, ask for things to do – be specific e.g. would anyone like a chat? There should be a resource box in the dayroom – books / memorabilia / DVDS

Types of mealtime assistance