Dysphagia Ramblings

Assessment, Management, Thickened Liquids

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.
View : The Free Water Protocol: Why Sometimes All a Patient Wants Is Just… Water
Assessment, Management

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.
View : How to Prevent Dehydration in Dysphagia: Evidence-Based Hydration Tools for SLPs
Management, Research

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.
View : Strength vs. Skill in Swallowing: Rethinking Dysphagia Therapy Approaches
Management, Research

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.
View : MD Anderson Bootcamp for Swallowing
Assessment, Management

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.
View : Redefining Dysphagia Care: From Observation to Rehabilitation
Assessment, Management

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.
View : Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) One Gold Standard Assessment
Assessment

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.
View : Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBSS) One Gold Standard Assessment
Resources

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.
View : 30 Facts About Dysphagia to Raise Awareness and Improve Patient Care
Management

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.
View : Nutrition Essentials for Modified Diets
Resources

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.
View : Modern Dysphagia Cooking: Turn Family Favorites into Dysphagia-Friendly Dishes