Student perspectives of simulated learning to improve their dysphagia management.

Background:  The use of simulation to enhance knowledge translation and bridge the theoretical-clinical gap to enhance clinical training and competency in health professions has received mixed reviews in the literature.

Objectives:  This research examined student perspectives of a simulation laboratory in speech therapy to improve students' clinical competency when working with adults with communication and dysphagia impairments.

Method:  An exploratory descriptive pilot study was conducted in 2022 with 16 third-year speech-language therapy students.

Weighing up the pros and cons of dysphagia triage in South Africa.

Background:  Early identification of dysphagia followed by intervention reduces, length of hospitalisation, degree of morbidity, hospital costs and risk of aspiration pneumonia. The emergency department offers an opportune space for triage. Triaging offers risk-based evaluation and early identification of dysphagia risk.

The perspectives of speech-language pathologists: Providing teletherapy to patients with speech, language and swallowing difficulties during a COVID-19 context.

Background:  The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a huge impact on every facet of life. This directly included the delivery of health care from allied health professionals such as speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in South Africa. Research has shown that there is limited research done locally on the impact of COVID-19 relating to stroke care.

Triage and dysphagia: Are hospitals in the South African public health sector ready?

Dysphagia screening is unequivocally beneficial for individuals who may be at risk of swallowing impairment. Benefits range from capitalising on early intervention, facilitating hydration and nutrition, reduced financial costs for the patient and prevention of dysphagia-related complications. Why then is there a need for triage? Inefficiencies and often non-existence of screening and referral processes require one to consider if triage may be a more viable option in the public healthcare context.

'We are in this together' voices of speech-language pathologists working in South African healthcare contexts during level 4 and level 5 lockdown of COVID-19.

Background: SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has had a significant impact on every South African but more specifically healthcare professionals, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs). In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, South Africa implemented a nationwide lockdown as confirmed cases continued to rise. Understanding the impact of COVID-19 on SLPs has a three-fold purpose: to re-evaluate service provision, service delivery platforms and to identify the need for support to SLPs during a time of crisis.