The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on healthcare systems globally, significantly affecting speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with patients suffering from dysphagia and dysphonia. The research article "An International Commentary on Dysphagia and Dysphonia During the COVID-19 Pandemic" provides critical insights into the challenges and opportunities for improving clinical practice in these areas.
Key Findings and Recommendations
The international expert panel's commentary highlights several critical points that practitioners can leverage to enhance their skills and improve patient outcomes:
- Enhanced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Protocols: The use of PPE has become paramount in managing patients with COVID-19 to prevent virus transmission. Practitioners should stay updated with the latest PPE guidelines and ensure their proper implementation during dysphagia and dysphonia assessments.
- Telehealth Adoption: The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telehealth services. While telehealth presents challenges such as digital literacy and access issues, it also offers opportunities for remote assessments and interventions. Practitioners should develop competencies in telehealth to ensure continuity of care.
- Instrumental Assessments: Early guidance limited aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) like videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) and flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). As restrictions ease, practitioners should prioritize these assessments to accurately diagnose and manage dysphagia and dysphonia.
- Well-Being of Healthcare Workers: The pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health and well-being of SLPs. Practitioners should seek support and resources to manage stress and prevent burnout, ensuring they can provide the best care to their patients.
- Innovative Management Techniques: The commentary discusses various innovative techniques, such as laryngeal ultrasound and transparent masks, that can enhance patient care. Practitioners should stay informed about these innovations and consider their applicability in their practice.
Encouraging Further Research
The article underscores the importance of ongoing research to better understand the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on dysphagia and dysphonia. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to and stay abreast of emerging research to continually refine their clinical approaches.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: An International Commentary on Dysphagia and Dysphonia During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
