FEES: Normal vs. Abnormal Swallow Function

Video Runtime: 42 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 27 Minutes

In recent years, due to technological advances and increased accessibility, FEES has become more prevalent and respected in the instrumental evaluation of swallowing. Recent research has shown that FEES is an excellent tool for not only detecting aspiration and residue but also in determining effective treatment. Determining the cause of dysphagia allows for effective and efficient treatment potentially reducing length of stays and diminishing the costs of altered diets and alternate feeding sources. However, there is limited training and education available with focus on FEES. At the end of this course, clinicians will understand the difference between normal variants of swallowing function and deficits in swallowing function that require treatment or modifications in diet, and they will know the presentation or technique to recommend appropriate diets and ensure they are not over or under treating to achieve optimal outcomes for patients. Clinicians will be able to identify normal (or functional) vs. abnormal swallowing results and proceed with appropriate diet recommendations and treatment protocol. Speech-language pathologists who work in or plan to work in any medical setting (acute care hospitals, private practice, skilled nursing facilities, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, long-term care, long-term acute care hospitals, rehab hospitals, specialty hospitals, etc.) would benefit from this course.