Postural drainage is performed before meals to minimize the risk of aspiration during eating. Which option best describes this timing?

• A. To reduce aspiration risk during meals
• B. To improve digestion
• C. To speed drainage
• D. To allow more rest

Answer: (A)

The main idea is preventing aspiration during meals by timing airway clearance before eating. Doing postural drainage first helps move secretions out of the lungs and into the upper airways so there’s less mucus in the throat and larynx when swallowing. This reduces the chance that secretions will be inhaled or accidentally aspirated during meals. It’s not about aiding digestion, speeding up drainage, or allowing more rest, but specifically about lowering aspiration risk while eating.