Speech-Language Pathology
The main focus of Speech-Language Pathology during patient hospitalization is to improve function in speech, language, cognition, fluency, voice and swallowing when impairments are present.
Treatments services provided by Speech-Language Pathology may include but are not limited to:
Dysphagia (swallow impairment) Therapy
- A comprehensive bedside swallow evaluation which may result in a need for further assessment by X-ray. This procedure is referred to as a Modified Barium Swallow study.
- Oral motor strengthening exercises, thermal / tactile stimulation, postural changes, use of compensatory / facilitative techniques, etc.
- Patient, family and staff training for swallow precautions, maneuvers and strategies.
- Passy-Muir Valve placement and training for patients with tracheostomies for ability to communicate using voicing and improving safety for swallowing / eating.
- Referral for additional services / specialties as needed (i.e. Dieticians; Gastroenterologists; Ear, Nose & Throat specialists, etc.)
Speech and Language Therapy
- Evaluation and treatment of impairments
- Comprehension - being able to understand information when reading and / or being spoken to
- Expression - being able to communicate one’s thoughts, ideas and needs either verbally, writing, and/or gestures
- Difficulty finding words when attempting to verbally communicate
- Speech production – the ability to articulate words accurately
- Weakness of the muscles of the face and / or tongue that are vital for accurate articulation and facial expressions
Cognitive Linguistic Therapy
- Evaluation and treatment of impairments of memory, attention, orientation to time and place, pragmatics (appropriate interactions such as eye contact, waiting for one’s turn to speak in a conversation, etc.)
Voice Therapy
- Evaluation and treatment of hoarseness, decreased loudness, excessively nasal voice, etc.
Fluency
- Evaluation and treatment of stuttering