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Enhancing Dysphagia Management in Schools: Lessons from Nursing Homes

Enhancing Dysphagia Management in Schools: Lessons from Nursing Homes

In the realm of special education, the management of dysphagia—difficulty in swallowing—presents a significant challenge. A recent study titled Management of Dysphagia in Nursing Homes: A National Survey provides valuable insights that can be translated into practical strategies for schools.

Key Findings and Implications for Schools

The study revealed substantial discrepancies in dysphagia management across nursing homes in Norway. The findings highlight the importance of structured screening, assessment, and intervention protocols. Here's how these insights can be applied in educational settings:

1. Routine Screening and Assessment

Approximately 75% of nursing homes did not routinely screen or assess residents for swallowing problems. In schools, establishing routine screening and assessment for dysphagia can ensure early identification and intervention. This can be done through:

2. Training and Upskilling Staff

The study found a significant need for training and upskilling staff in nursing homes. Similarly, schools should prioritize continuous professional development for staff, including:

3. Implementing Evidence-Based Interventions

Nursing homes often used bolus modification as a standard practice. However, evidence suggests that individualized interventions based on thorough assessments are more effective. Schools can adopt evidence-based strategies such as:

4. Leveraging External Expertise

Nearly 50% of nursing homes lacked access to external experts like speech therapists. Schools should establish connections with external professionals to provide specialized support. This can include:

Conclusion

The findings from the national survey of nursing homes underscore the critical need for structured dysphagia management protocols, continuous staff training, and access to external expertise. By adopting these practices, schools can significantly enhance the quality of care for students with dysphagia.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Management of Dysphagia in Nursing Homes: A National Survey.


Citation: Engh, M. C. N., & Speyer, R. (2021). Management of dysphagia in nursing homes: A national survey. Dysphagia, 37(2), 266-276. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00455-021-10275-7
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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