What symptom is expected in a client recovering from aspiration pneumonia?

Coughing during fluid intake is expected in a client recovering from aspiration pneumonia because of the residual effects of the condition on their ability to safely swallow. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when food or liquid enters the lungs, leading to an inflammatory response and symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. During recovery, the patient's swallowing mechanism may still be compromised, increasing the likelihood of coughing when consuming liquids. This is a protective reflex to prevent further aspiration and indicates that the client might still be at risk of aspiration, highlighting the need for ongoing assessment and possible modification of swallowing techniques or dietary recommendations.

The other symptoms mentioned may not align with recovery from aspiration pneumonia. While the ability to drink liquids without coughing and consistent swallowing with no discomfort are ideal goals for recovery, they might not be realistic immediately following such an event. Increased appetite and energy levels could also be observed as the client recovers, but may not fully manifest until they have returned to a baseline of health, and coughing during fluid intake can signify further caution is required.