Aspiration Precautions

To ensure safe swallowing and prevent aspiration follow these steps.

Aspiration means food or liquid goes into the airway instead of the stomach.

1. SMALL BITES
2. SMALL SIPS
3. Alternate liquid and solid swallows
4. Ensure oral clearance after each bite
5. Sit upright (90 degrees) when eating and drinking and for 30 minutes after eating
6. Multiple swallows per bite/sip
7. Small, frequent meals throughout the day
8. Consume one pill at a time

Questions? Call UMMC Speech-Language Pathology 601-815-6064.

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