Final answer:
During the pharyngeal phase of swallowing, the patient should follow the provider's instructions, which usually involve swallowing normally or holding their breath momentarily. This triggers protective reflexes that prevent food from entering the trachea.
Step-by-step explanation:
Instructions for Patients When Reaching the Pharynx
When a patient reaches the pharyngeal phase of swallowing, specific reflex actions are necessary to ensure that food passes into the esophagus safely, without entering the respiratory tract. At this point, healthcare providers might instruct the patient to swallow normally or hold their breath momentarily. The action of swallowing triggers the soft palate and uvula to rise and block the nasopharynx, while the larynx is pulled upwards causing the epiglottis to fold down and cover the glottis. These reflexes help prevent aspiration of food into the trachea. If an object were to enter the trachea, involuntary coughing would likely occur to force the object out, or in severe cases, the Heimlich maneuver may be necessary.
The pharyngeal phase involves key muscle contractions and the release of the upper esophageal sphincter, allowing the bolus of food to pass from the oropharynx into the esophagus seamlessly. This part of swallowing, called peristalsis, is coordinated by the deglutition center in the medulla oblongata, which sends the necessary impulses to muscle groups in the pharynx and esophagus. Patients should be relaxed and follow the provider's instructions carefully to facilitate this complex process.