Managing Aspiration Risk

Aspiration occurs when foreign material, such as food, liquids, vomit, gastric contents, or secretions from the mouth, are inhaled into the lower airways, often leading to inflammation of the lungs and bronchial tubes.

Aspiration can occur with disorders that affect normal swallowing, disorders of the esophagus, a decreased or absent gag reflex, dysphagia, dental problems, use of sedatives, anesthesia, and coma.

Resources Created by HHSC

• Evidence-Based Best Practices: Managing Aspiration Risk (PDF) identifies common risk factors for aspiration, interventions for managing aspiration risk, and treatment for aspiration pneumonia. 

Resources from Other Organizations

• How Does Oral Care Prevent Aspiration Pneumonia? discusses the importance of good oral hygiene for individuals experiencing dysphagia in prevention of potential pneumonia from aspirating oral secretions.
• Aspiration Pneumonitis and Pneumonia includes predisposing conditions, pathophysiology and diagnosis of aspiration pneumonia.
• Preventing Aspiration: A Common and Dangerous Problem for Patients with Cancer discusses the importance of preventing aspiration in individuals with cancer. Note: To access this resource, you must set up a free account.
• Comprehensive Aspiration Risk Management Plan (PDF) was developed for people with developmental disabilities in the outpatient setting. It includes assessment items and potential interventions relevant to long-term care. The Instructional Guide (PDF) provides more information about the management plan form.
• Stat Pearls: Aspiration Risk (Nursing) discusses risk factors and assessment for aspiration, as well as nursing management and patient monitoring.