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Before the next sip

Illustrated Story B08, with a text transcript.

Read story B08: Before the next sip (image and text)
Six-panel illustrated story, Before the next sip. Beth offers her older father Gareth a drink while he sits upright in bed. He coughs and looks sleepier. She puts the cup down and calls the nurse, describing both changes. The nurse checks him promptly and explains that staff will check what is safe before more is offered. No food or fluid is forced. Footer: Delirium care includes checking that swallowing is safe.

Delirium and the illness causing it can affect alertness and the ability to swallow safely. If your relative coughs with a drink, struggles to swallow or becomes much sleepier, stop offering that drink and tell staff promptly.

Ask how you can safely help with eating and drinking. The plan should fit the person’s current condition and may need to change. Do not force food or drink when someone can’t manage it.

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Story text

  1. Panel 1. At the bedside.

  2. Panel 2. He coughs and becomes sleepier.

  3. Panel 3. Beth stops offering the drink.

  4. Panel 4.

    • Beth: He coughed with that sip, and he’s much sleepier.

  5. Panel 5. The nurse checks him promptly.

  6. Panel 6.

    • Nurse: We’ll check what’s safe before offering more.

Bottom band. Delirium care includes checking that swallowing is safe.

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