Category: Management
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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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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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Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR)
Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR) streamlines therapy for patients with moderate to severe dysphagia through evidence-based protocols leveraging neuroplasticity. By focusing on targeted swallowing exercises and patient adherence, IDR enhances treatment efficacy, improving patient outcomes and compliance. It marks a significant shift from compensation to active rehabilitation in dysphagia therapy.
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Head and Neck Cancer and Dysphagia: Treatment Options and Timing
Effective management of dysphagia in head and neck cancer patients involves early assessment and initiation of swallowing therapy alongside treatment. Various strategies, including rigorous swallowing exercises and innovative programs like MD Anderson’s Swallowing Boot Camp, show promise in improving swallowing function and quality of life, despite challenges in standardization and adherence.
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Understanding the IDDSI™ Framework
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI™) provides a unified system for food and drink consistencies, enhancing patient safety. It replaces the National Dysphagia Diet, offering clear levels for drinks and foods, minimizing risks. Resources such as testing cards and guides support implementation and training in diverse healthcare settings.
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Dysphagia Ramblings 