What assessment finding indicates a patient is ready to progress to tolerate ice chips?

The assessment finding that indicates a patient is ready to progress to tolerating ice chips is the ability to cough. This is significant because effective coughing ability suggests that the patient has regained adequate airway reflexes and respiratory function, which are crucial for safely swallowing anything, even something as simple as ice chips. A patient who can cough is less likely to aspirate, which is a risk when introducing oral intake following anesthesia. This ability demonstrates an improved level of consciousness and motor function, essential for safe recovery.

While clear speech, stable vital signs, and absence of nausea are important indicators of recovery, they do not specifically reflect the readiness for oral intake. Speech ability assesses cognitive and motor recovery, stable vital signs indicate overall stability, and the absence of nausea suggests readiness but does not confirm functional airway management. Therefore, effective coughing is the most direct indicator that a patient can begin to tolerate ice chips safely.