Rules for Feeding Alison

Rachael Gordon, the speach therapist, is moving forward with the paperwork to approve Alison again for pleasure feedings. =>> Reenie will tell us when this gets approved. Before that, we cannot feed her.

There is some risk as Alison is inconsistent with how well she swallows every day. Therefore, Rachael has asked that we follow the following rules:
• Only persons trained by Rachael are allowed to feed her (so far me, Mary Pat and Rolina next Monday).
• Only 4 ounces maximum per feeding session.
• Have the head of Alison’s bed raised up as far as it goes.
• Feed half spoonfuls only, and make sure Alison swallows twice after each spoonful.
• Clear any amount of extra liquid that gathers inside her lower lip with a napkin.
• Alison needs to remain sitting up in the bed or chair for 20 minutes after feeding.

Here is info on when it is OK to continue feeding her and when we have to STOP the feeding.
• If she coughs and it is productive, continue with feeding.
• If she says she has trouble breathing, stop feeding.
• Maybe restart if she clears her breathing but do not continue if she still has trouble breathing.
• Nonproductive coughing, nonproductive throat clearing, and a wet voice are all bad. Stop feeding.
• If there is any tearing from her eyes, stop.

Alison can only consume thick pureed items, of honey consistency.
• We need to strain the lobster bisque so there are no bits in it.
• Coffee yogurt is great.
• Carrot juice will need to be thickened with the powder (nursing desk is getting a can for our use).

I have left yogurt and carrot juice at the nursing station if Alison gets ok’s before next Thursday. I will bring strained lobster bisque in a week.