Author: Tiffani Wallace-SLP and Certified Nutrition Coach
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The Free Water Protocol: Why Sometimes All a Patient Wants Is Just… Water
The Free Water Protocol allows certain patients, particularly those on thickened liquids or NPO status, to safely consume regular water between meals. Emphasizing hydration and patient dignity, it incorporates oral care and eligibility criteria. Research shows it enhances hydration and patient satisfaction, countering dehydration and fostering a sense of normalcy in care.
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How to Prevent Dehydration in Dysphagia: Evidence-Based Hydration Tools for SLPs
Discover safe, research-supported hydration techniques for dysphagia—ice chips, free water, moisture-rich foods, and oral care to reduce dehydration risk.
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Strength vs. Skill in Swallowing: Rethinking Dysphagia Therapy Approaches
Should dysphagia therapy focus on skill training or strength training? Learn how both approaches impact swallowing rehabilitation, why exercise science principles matter, and what research says about effective therapy strategies for SLPs.
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MD Anderson Bootcamp for Swallowing
Dysphagia post-head and neck cancer treatment is a significant challenge for clinicians. MD Anderson’s 2012 Dysphagia Boot Camp offers a reactive therapy for patients with severe swallowing difficulties. Through intensive, multidisciplinary approaches, participants engage in personalized rehabilitation aiming to improve safety, efficiency, and quality of life, resulting in notable improvements in swallowing outcomes.
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Redefining Dysphagia Care: From Observation to Rehabilitation
The post discusses the inadequacies of current dysphagia therapy practices, emphasizing the need for instrumental evaluations like MBSS and FEES to properly assess swallowing. It criticizes superficial interventions in favor of evidence-based, individualized rehabilitation strategies that enhance patient outcomes. The author urges speech-language pathologists to adopt a proactive approach in their therapy sessions.
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Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) One Gold Standard Assessment
FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is an assessment procedure gaining recognition alongside the Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS). It allows real-time visualization of swallowing mechanics without barium, offering insights into aspiration and residue. Myths surrounding FEES, such as pain and safety, are debunked, reinforcing its value in dysphagia diagnosis.
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Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) One Gold Standard Assessment
The dysphagia field is divided between Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) and Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). Each assessment has its strengths, and using both together offers a comprehensive understanding of swallowing function. Advocating for access to both methods can enhance patient evaluation and treatment outcomes, focusing on physiological deficits rather than just safety.
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30 Facts About Dysphagia to Raise Awareness and Improve Patient Care
June is Dysphagia Awareness Month, highlighting the condition affecting millions. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can stem from various underlying issues and leads to serious health risks. Speech-Language Pathologists play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment. Raising awareness about dysphagia improves outcomes for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.
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Nutrition Essentials for Modified Diets
Nutrition is vital for health, especially for individuals on modified diets, who are at risk of malnutrition. Macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) play crucial roles. Strategies such as food fortification, small frequent meals, and hydration can enhance nutritional intake, ensuring patients maintain health and well-being despite dietary restrictions.
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Modern Dysphagia Cooking: Turn Family Favorites into Dysphagia-Friendly Dishes
Simply Thick has released a cookbook featuring dysphagia-friendly recipes compliant with IDDSI levels 4, 5, and 6. It includes simple pureeing techniques for common foods, alongside informative chapters on dysphagia and nutrition. This resource aids families, patients, and caregivers in preparing compliant meals, enhancing dietary understanding and meal preparation.
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Dysphagia Ramblings 