School-based dysphagia management : necessary considerations for the speech-language pathologist

Abstract

Many articles have addressed effective school-based dysphagia management practices. There is not a defined best practice plan available for speech-language pathologists, as the information is spread among various published articles. Four optimal outcomes and the most relevant management suggestions to help guarantee achievement of these outcomes are described. Sufficient information found from published articles describes the areas of referral, team responsibilities, assessment, Individualized Education Plan formulation, and treatment in school-based dysphagia management. This information, along with additional suggestions not frequently mentioned in the articles was added to a proposed school-based dysphagia management model. This model is intended for use as a guide for speech-language pathologists in the schools who do not have a management plan available for use.