Speech-language pathologists in the acute care setting evaluate and treat dysphagia, speech-language disorders, voice disorders, cognitive-communication disorders. The most common evaluation request is for dysphagia due to safety considerations and the risks of developing pneumonia, chest infections, and respiratory distress associated with aspiration. This presentation focuses on dysphagia evaluation and treatment in the ICU and the varied considerations needed to foster good patient outcomes. Considerations include a review of EBP, lab values, supplemental oxygen needs, and considerations related to covid-19. Ethical concerns for treatment will also be discussed.
