Utah CNA Skills Practice Test 2026 - Free CNA Skills Practice Questions and Study Guide

Choking during a meal is a red flag that requires stopping feeding immediately because the airway is blocked or at risk of becoming blocked, which can prevent oxygen from getting to the lungs. When a resident chokes, you pause feeding to address the airway first. If they can cough and speak, you can let them try to clear the airway and then reassess before continuing. If coughing stops or the person cannot breathe or speak, you should alert a nurse and follow your facility’s choking protocol, using any trained first-aid steps to clear the airway and summon emergency help if needed.

Smiling during feeding isn’t itself a safety issue; it might simply mean the person is comfortable. Eating slowly and chewing thoroughly are indicators of safe eating and good swallowing coordination, not reasons to stop feeding. They reflect normal, deliberate eating rather than an immediate risk.