Post-bronchoscopy, what area should the nurse assess before allowing a client to consume ice chips or fluids?

After a bronchoscopy, it is essential to assess the client's swallowing ability before allowing them to consume anything by mouth, including ice chips or fluids. This is because the procedure involves the insertion of a bronchoscope into the airway, which can cause temporary changes to the reflexes involved in swallowing. If the swallowing ability is compromised, there is an increased risk of aspiration, which can lead to serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

Ensuring that the client can safely swallow is a key nursing intervention, as it directly relates to their ability to protect their airway and prevent any food or liquid from entering the lungs. A proper assessment of swallowing includes observing the client's ability to manage secretions, any coughing or choking behavior, and whether they can follow commands related to swallowing.

In contrast, while monitoring breathing rate, vocal cord function, and pulse oximetry are important components of post-procedural assessment, they do not specifically address the immediate safety concerns related to oral intake. Therefore, evaluating the swallowing ability is the most critical assessment to perform prior to allowing the client to consume liquids.