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Unlocking the Power of S-LP Medical Directives: Improving Accuracy and Timeliness in Diet Orders

Unlocking the Power of S-LP Medical Directives: Improving Accuracy and Timeliness in Diet Orders

In the realm of Speech-Language Pathology (S-LP), ensuring timely and accurate diet texture orders is critical, particularly in acute care settings. A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology sheds light on the significant benefits of implementing a medical directive for S-LPs to manage diet textures. This blog explores the study's findings and offers actionable insights for practitioners aiming to enhance their clinical practice.

The Study at a Glance

The study, titled Speech-Language Pathology Diet Texture Medical Directive: Impact on Accuracy and Timeliness of Diet Order Entry, evaluated the use, safety, and timeliness of a medical directive allowing S-LPs to order, modify, and discontinue diet textures in an acute care inpatient setting. The researchers reviewed 1,574 patient charts over three years: one year prior to implementation (2008), the month of implementation (2009), and one year post-implementation (2010).

Key Findings

Implementing the Findings

For practitioners, the study's outcomes provide a compelling case for adopting a medical directive in managing diet textures. Here are some steps to consider:

  1. Develop a Medical Directive: Collaborate with your healthcare team to draft a medical directive that outlines the criteria and procedures for diet texture modifications.
  2. Educate and Train: Ensure that all S-LPs undergo comprehensive training on the new directive, including annual refreshers to maintain competency.
  3. Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously monitor the accuracy and timeliness of diet orders and gather feedback from the interprofessional team to identify areas for improvement.
  4. Foster Collaboration: Work closely with dietitians, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a seamless implementation process.

Encouraging Further Research

While the study presents promising results, further research is essential to optimize the use of medical directives in S-LP practice. Future studies could focus on:

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Speech-Language Pathology Diet Texture Medical Directive: Impact on Accuracy and Timeliness of Diet Order Entry.


Citation: Chalmers, C., Girma, N., Barker, J., Liu, L. W. C., & Heck, C. S. (2016). Speech-Language Pathology Diet Texture Medical Directive: Impact on Accuracy and Timeliness of Diet Order Entry. Canadian Journal of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, 40(1), 17-29.
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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