Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties)

Course Content:

• Introduction to Dysphagia: Overview of dysphagia, including its definition, the anatomy and physiology of swallowing, and how dysphagia can affect different populations, such as those with neurological conditions, elderly patients, or individuals recovering from surgery.
• Causes and Types of Dysphagia: Exploration of the various causes of dysphagia, including neurological disorders, structural abnormalities, and age-related changes, as well as the different types of dysphagia (oral, pharyngeal, and oesophageal).
• Signs and Symptoms: Identification of the common signs and symptoms of dysphagia, such as coughing or choking during meals, drooling, and unexplained weight loss, and understanding how to assess and monitor these symptoms.
• Risk Factors and Complications: Understanding the potential risks and complications associated with dysphagia, including aspiration, malnutrition, dehydration, and respiratory infections.
• Assessment and Diagnosis: Training on the assessment tools and techniques used to diagnose dysphagia, including bedside swallowing assessments, videofluoroscopy, and fibre-optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES).
• Safe Feeding Techniques: Guidance on safe feeding and swallowing strategies, including texture modification of food and fluids, positioning techniques, and the use of adaptive equipment to support individuals with dysphagia.
• Creating Individualised Care Plans: Developing person-centred care plans that address the unique needs of individuals with dysphagia, including dietary recommendations, monitoring protocols, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
• Supporting Families and Carers: Providing support and education to families and carers of individuals with dysphagia, helping them understand the condition and the importance of following prescribed care plans.

Learning Outcomes: By the end of the Dysphagia Awareness and Management Training Course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the Nature of Dysphagia: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of dysphagia, including its causes, types, and how it affects the swallowing process.

• Recognise Signs and Symptoms: Identify the signs and symptoms of dysphagia, enabling early detection and appropriate intervention to manage the condition effectively.

• Assess and Monitor Dysphagia: Apply knowledge of assessment tools and techniques to evaluate swallowing function and monitor the progression of dysphagia in patients.

• Implement Safe Feeding Practices: Use safe feeding and swallowing strategies, such as modifying food textures and implementing appropriate positioning techniques, to minimise the risk of aspiration and other complications.

• Develop Individualised Care Plans: Create and implement person-centred care plans that address the specific needs of individuals with dysphagia, ensuring a holistic approach to their care.

• Educate and Support Families and Carers: Provide practical support and education to families and carers, helping them understand dysphagia and the importance of adhering to safe swallowing practices and care plans.

• Collaborate with Multidisciplinary Teams: Work effectively with speech and language therapists, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals to deliver coordinated care for individuals with dysphagia.

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to support individuals with dysphagia in a safe and effective manner. They will also receive certification, demonstrating their competence in dysphagia management and their commitment to improving the quality of care for those affected by the condition.