In this episode of Speech Talk, Eva and Emily explore how GERD impacts swallowing, nutrition, and patient care in skilled nursing facilities. Learn how to recognize GERD-related symptoms, advocate for proper referrals, educate CNAs, and navigate precautions like posture and diet modifications. With clinical research and personal stories, they break down practical steps SLPs can take to make a difference in GERD management—without overstepping scope.

You’ll learn:

How GERD symptoms affect swallowing and esophageal function

When and how to refer to GI specialists

Strategies for working with CNAs on posture and safety

Why smaller, more frequent meals are often recommended

The pros and cons of PPI use—including dementia and kidney risks

When to use tools like the EAT-10 to assess GERD-related quality of life

How to build clinically relevant goals for patients with GERD

Articles Referenced:

Revicki, D. A., Wood, M., Maton, P. N., & Sorensen, S. (1998). The impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease on health-related quality of life. The American Journal of Medicine, 104(3), 252–258. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0002-9343(97)00354-9

Abraham, B. P., & Gulati, N. (2022). Proton pump inhibitors: Risks and benefits. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 89(12), 700–703. https://doi.org/10.3949/ccjm.89a.22059

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved May 25, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proton-pump-inhibitors

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