After a CVA, which intervention is most important for a nurse to assess regularly?

After a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), often referred to as a stroke, monitoring swallowing ability is crucial due to the high risk of dysphagia, which can occur as a result of neurological deficits. Individuals who have experienced a stroke may have impaired coordination of the muscles used for swallowing, leading to potential aspiration and subsequent respiratory complications if food or liquids enter the airway.

Assessing swallowing ability regularly enables healthcare providers to ensure patient safety when eating or drinking, and allows for timely interventions, such as dietary modifications or the implementation of swallowing therapy. By prioritizing swallowing assessments, nurses can reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia and other complications that can arise from swallowing difficulties, thus improving patient outcomes in the recovery phase after a stroke.

Monitoring other factors such as sensory processing, muscle strength, and visual acuity is also important; however, the immediate concern post-CVA is often related to the patient's ability to safely consume food and liquids. Therefore, regular assessment of swallowing ability takes precedence in the context of stroke recovery.