What does the client's son need to do during enteral feedings to demonstrate he understood the nurse's teaching?

The correct response highlights the importance of positioning during enteral feedings. For optimal safety and to reduce the risk of complications such as aspiration, it is recommended that clients receiving enteral feedings be placed in an upright position, ideally at a 30 to 45-degree angle. Sitting in a chair during the feeding exemplifies an effective understanding of this guideline, as it facilitates proper digestion and helps to prevent aspiration, which can occur if food enters the airway instead of the esophagus.

If an individual is lying flat, administering the feeding while the client sleeps, or placing them in a reclined position can significantly increase the risk of aspiration. Each of these positions may compromise the feeding process and potentially lead to dangerous outcomes. Hence, maintaining an upright posture during enteral feedings is crucial for ensuring safety and comfort for the client.