ExamReady CNAPersonal Care
Feeding a Dependent Resident
Sit at the resident's eye level. Offer small bites. Allow time to chew. Alternate bites with sips. End with mouth care. The patient should be sitting upright at 90 degrees throughout.
20-30 minutes•15 steps•1 critical
Why this matters
Position, pace, and patience — the three rules of every feeding.
Quick tips
- Upright 75 to 90 degrees before the first bite and when you leave.
- Sit down, at eye level and facing the client.
- Name each food, one spoonful at a time.
Common mistakes
- Feeding before the client is fully upright, which risks inhaling food.
- Raising the bed only partway (for example 30 to 45 degrees) instead of 75 to 90.
- Standing over the client while feeding. The checklist has you sit facing them.
- Forgetting to clean the client's hands before starting.