A nurse assesses a client with Parkinson's disease during mealtime. Which action is inappropriate?

• A. Allow extra time for meals and minimize distractions
• B. Limit the length of mealtime
• C. Provide soft, easily chewed foods
• D. Offer small, frequent portions

Answer: (B)

Mealtime management for someone with Parkinson's disease focuses on accommodating slowed movement and swallowing difficulties to promote safe, adequate intake. Allowing extra time and reducing distractions helps the patient focus on chewing and swallowing without rushing, which lowers the risk of choking and aspiration. Providing soft, easily chewed foods minimizes the effort needed for mastication and makes swallowing safer. Offering small, frequent portions helps prevent fatigue and supports steady intake over the meal.

Limiting the length of mealtime is inappropriate because rushing the patient can increase fatigue, impair bolus control, and raise the risk of aspiration and incomplete intake.