This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Medicine
When caring for a male patient who has just had a total laryngectomy, the nurse should plan to: 
Select and explain. 
A. Encourage oral feeding as soon as possible, B. Develop an alternative communication method, C. Keep the tracheostomy cuff fully inflated, D. Keep the patient flat in bed
B: Develop an alternative communication method
Answer: B: Develop an alternative communication method 
Explanation: A patient with a laryngectomy cannot speak, yet still needs to communicate.
Therefore, the nurse should plan to develop an alternative communication method.
After a laryngectomy, edema interferes with the ability to swallow and necessitates tube (enteral) feedings. 
To prevent injury to the tracheal mucosa, the nurse should deflate the tracheostomy cuff or use the minimal leak technique.
To decrease edema, the nurse should place the patient in semi-Fowler’s position.