What is part of the PSW role in nutrition and hydration?

• A. Prescribe dietary plans
• B. Assist with meals and fluid intake as directed, accommodate dietary restrictions, monitor intake, and report concerns
• C. Replace physician's nutrition plan
• D. Ignore dietary restrictions

Answer: (B)

Supporting nutrition and hydration means providing practical, safe help within the care plan to ensure residents get enough nourishment and fluids. The best choice shows that a PSW assists with meals and fluid intake as directed, accommodates dietary restrictions, monitors intake, and reports concerns. This involves helping with feeding or drinks as allowed, respecting restrictions (such as texture-modified foods or allergy limitations), and keeping track of what is eaten and drunk. Regular documentation and communication of any concerns—like consistently low intake, signs of dehydration, or weight changes—to the nurse or supervisor enable appropriate action. Prescribing dietary plans or replacing a physician’s nutrition plan isn’t part of the PSW role, and ignoring dietary restrictions could put the resident at risk.