Swallow the Gap: Dysphagia and Medical SLP

How can Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training (IMST) be integrated into your patient care? In this episode, we explore respiratory muscle strength training (RMST), with a specific focus on IMST—one of the less familiar tools for speech-language pathologists. Tune in as we discuss the science and real-world applications of RMST, with expert insights from Dr. Alex Brandimore. Whether you’re new to RMST or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights for advancing dysphagia care.

Episode Sponsor: Aspire Respiratory Products - Visit https://emst150.com for access to free educational resources (found on the healthcare professionals side of the site).

Other Resources:
https://emst150.com/research-list-case-studies/

Hear more from our speaker on Sept. 20-21, 2024 at the
Hard to Swallow - A Catalyst for Change in Dysphagia Management conference, featuring our podcast guest - https://peaks.rm.edu/course

Bio: Dr. Alexandra Brandimore, Ph.D. CCC-SLP joined the USF Communication Sciences and Disorders department faculty in May 2017. Her research targets the development of evaluative techniques and therapeutic paradigms to improve upper airway dysfunction, primarily dysphagia (disordered swallowing) and dystussia (disordered cough), in persons with neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Parkinson’s disease). Her clinical work has mainly been in Movement Disorders where she has evaluated and treated the motor speech, voice, AAC, and airway protective needs of hundreds of patients. She has participated in the collaborative, multidisciplinary ALS clinic within the USF Health system to facilitate the complex needs of these patients. Dr. Brandimore has teaching expertise in respiratory physiology, cognitive-motor relationships, neural/myogenic adaptations to exercise and training, with emphasis on the swallowing, coughing and respiratory systems, and clinical disorders of motor speech, voice, and airway protection. 

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

This episode continues the discussion from the April 20th, 2024 webinar "Dysphagia in Patients with Pulmonary Compromise: ICU and Beyond." It is a special release that falls between Season 1 and Season 2, covering topics related to dysphagia practice in patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It is also relevant to long-term acute care units (LTAC) and other settings.

This episode expresses opinions of the guests and hosts. It should not be taken to represent our employers or as health or legal advice.

Guests:
Martin Brodsky, PhD, ScM, CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow
Jo Puntil, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, ASHA Fellow
Kendrea Layne (Focht) Garand, PhD, CScD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CBIS, CCRE
George Barnes, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

Resources:
Confounding Case Series, Beginning June 27, 2024: https://www.swallowthegap.com/livecourses
or
https://events.zoom.us/eo/AldPDrAEr9j1jAVZ1uZ1Il3vgIoWBj1EeacLXXZ4lhJvT3D76Gli~AggLXsr32QYFjq8BlYLZ5I06Dg

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

In a startling sample of patients, 67% of those with a modified diet and 61% of those with feeding tubes who were then assessed with FEES did not appear to even have dysphagia (Bice et al., 2024)!

Soon to be Dr. Matthew Ward (🤞April 18th) and Tim discuss jarring data from Matt’s recent publication Dysphagia and Diets in Skilled Nursing Facilities When Patient's Health Status Changes: The Role of Imaging. Moving beyond the angst of the metaphorical mirror of dysphagia management, we highlight the transformative potential that is possible through reflection and a growth-mindset.

Episode Sponsored by https://www.sasspllc.com/
Training in Flexible Endoscopic Swallow Evaluations – Beginner, Advanced, and More!

Guest Bio
Matthew Ward received his B.A. from Lipscomb University and his M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Tennessee State University. He is currently studying for a Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Middle Tennessee State University, defending his dissertation two days after this episode's release! He has been a medical speech-language pathologist since 2012.  He is a certified endoscopist, certified endoscopy trainer, and the Director of Clinical Education for SA Swallowing Services. He has been a medical speech-language pathologist since 2012, and he currently serves on the Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences for the state of Tennessee. He teaches basic and advanced FEES courses, and he teaches medical speech-language pathology courses at Middle Tennessee State University. Matt has been an invited speaker at colleges, state and local associations, international podcasts, and multiple international medical universities. He has published multiple articles on swallowing and swallowing disorders in peer-reviewed journals, and his research interests include swallowing, health outcomes related to swallowing disorders, and health outcomes associated with the treatment of swallowing disorders when treated by speech-language pathologists.

Resources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38109943/

Please let us know your thoughts on season 1 and your ideas for season 2!
https://www.swallowthegap.com/survey

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

How can you prevent ~40 pneumonia cases and save $1.5 million in 1 year? Listen to find out! Join us today with three doctorate-level healthcare providers and an advanced practice nurse as we unravel startling data on the effect of oral hygiene on hospital-acquired pneumonia. Our expert guests will dive into how something as simple as improved oral hygiene can not only enhance patient outcomes (by ~37%!!) but also potentially save healthcare facilities millions of dollars. This episode contains actionable insights and practical information aimed at advancing oral hygiene practices in healthcare institutions. Prepare to be surprised by the powerful effect of basic oral care in this eye-opening discussion.

This episode is graciously sponsored by Bracco Diagnostics, maker of VARIBAR® (barium sulfate) - Check them out at VaribarMBS.com

Dr. Barbara Quinn is a board-certified Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Fellow of NACNS (National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists).  She has 30 years of experience as a Registered Nurse. After 18 years at the bedside, Barbara earned her Master of Science degree in Nursing and then her Doctor of Nursing Science in 2021.
Barbara recently retired from her role as the Director of Professional Practice and Nursing Excellence for the Sutter Health System of hospitals with a focus on elevating the profession of nursing, improving outcomes, and mentoring nurses.  Barb continues to educate and consult, emphasizing nurse-sensitive outcomes such as the prevention of Non-Ventilator Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia (NV-HAP). 
She is a member of several professional organizations, is a frequent presenter at national professional conferences, and has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications.
When she is not in the home office, Barb enjoys being outdoors on their 5-acre property in the Sierra foothills of California.

Kathleen Vollman, MSN, RN, CCNS, FCCM, FAAN is a Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist and Consultant.  She has published & lectured nationally and internationally on a variety of pulmonary, critical care, prevention of health care acquired injuries including pressure injury and CAUTI/CLABSI’s and other HAI’s, work culture and sepsis recognition & management.
•College of Critical Care Medicine (2004)
•American Academy of Nurses (2009),
•Current President: World Federation of Critical Care Nurses (2023-2025)

Dr. Erin McCarthy is the owner and Executive Director of Rochester Feeding & Swallowing Therapy in Rochester, New York – a private practice dedicated to the assessment and treatment of individuals with feeding & swallowing disorders from Birth through age 64. She is also the Director of Clinical Education for the new graduate level Speech-Language Pathology program at D’Youville University. Dr. McCarthy is affiliated with the University of Rochester Medical Center and Rochester Regional Health and is a Board-Certified Specialist in Swallowing disorders.  She is a consultant and an expert-matter speaker for Stryker Medical Company and has presented at the regional, state and national level.  She has been in clinical practice for 26 years and has extensive experience in the acute care setting, with leadership & supervision, implementation science research, inter-professional practice, and academia. Her clinical focus areas are in adult neurogenic acquired swallowing disorders, post-extubation dysphagia, utilizing orofacial myofunctional therapy as a treatment modality with patients experiencing dysphagia as well as examining the impact that oral care has on the incidence rate of non-ventilator hospital acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP). Dr. McCarthy has served as an adjunct professor at the State University of New York at Geneseo and Nazareth University of Rochester over the past 21 years and currently serves as an adj

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

This episode is a must-listen for those who dream big about inspiring positive change and for clinicians who may need a boost in their motivation. Sam Walker, an SLP and business owner, shares transformative lessons from her mother's 72-day hospitalization battling sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and the rigors of invasive airway support. With her unique blend of personal experience and professional acumen, Sam elevates a perspective on patient care and education that intertwines our individuality, professionalism, and shared humanity. This episode also features Jo Puntil, an esteemed ASHA Fellow and ICU trailblazer with over 35 years of acute care expertise, adding depth to this inspiring dialogue.

This episode is graciously sponsored by Bracco Diagnostics, maker of VARIBAR® (barium sulfate) - varibarmbs.com

Bios
Sam Walker, MS, CCC-SLP, TSSLD, the spirited and passionate owner of Speaking of Samantics and the SLP Test Prep, is a shining example of how creativity can pave the way to success. When the pandemic left her unable to work, she tapped into her artistic side and transformed her situation with just a few brilliant sticker designs. Today, Speaking of Samantics boasts an incredible collection of over 400 unique designs that have expanded far beyond stickers! Beyond her inventive flair, Sam has embraced her role as a fervent advocate for graduate students in the field of speech pathology. Recognizing the challenges of graduate school, she is determined to reshape the narrative, striving to create a more accepting and supportive environment for all those navigating this demanding journey. In line with this mission, Sam launched The SLP Test Prep, your go-to platform for an engaging and effective study experience designed specifically for SLP graduate students. Whether you're preparing for critical exams or seeking to reinforce your learning, the interactive approach makes studying both enjoyable and comprehensive. Join Sam every Tuesday for live Kahoot! sessions via Zoom for real-time learning, and don't worry if you miss a session. With over 95 recorded games and more than 100 interactive worksheets available, you can study at your own pace, ensuring you're always on top of your game. At The SLP Test Prep, Sam is committed to helping you succeed in your SLP graduate studies by turning study time into an interactive, knowledge-building adventure.
https://slptestprep.com/

 Jo Puntil, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, ASHA-F is the Past ASHA Chair of the CCFC which oversees the implementation of certification and standards of care in Speech Pathology and Audiology.  She has specialized in managing communication/cognitive and swallowing disorders for over 35 years in critical and acute care. Jo has extensive experience in developing interdisciplinary rehab programs, has lectured extensively, and has numerous publications.

Oh yeah! The early bird rate for Jo's ICU webinar event with Dr. Martin Brodsky, Dr. Kendrea (Focht) Garand, and George Barnes ends at 11:59 PM March 31st! Sign up now and save $21.   www.swallowthegap.com/livecourses

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

In this episode, we discuss diagnosing and managing dysphagia in patients with dementia. Dr. Jeannette Benigas and Rinki Varindani Desai integrate various sources with their own professional experience to help better equip SLPs to partner with our  patients.

Episode Resources:
Free webinar of NFOSD: https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/webinar-recording-dysphagia-dementia/

NFOSD blog post for caregivers: https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/caregivers-guide-dysphagia-dementia/

ECAT
https://www.healthpropress.com/product/environment-communication-assessment-toolkit-ecat-for-dementia-care-with-meters

Medbridge Link for the following courses: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/benigas
code to save: BENIGAS

Biography
Dr. Jeanette E. Benigas, PhD owns Safe Swallowing Diagnostics, a mobile FEES company serving Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Her extensive clinical experience has included work with adults in the acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, post-acute rehabilitation, long-term care, home health, and outpatient settings. Dr. Benigas's research interests include improving the quality of life for people with dementia, specifically those who have difficulties eating and swallowing. Her research has incorporated the use of spaced retrieval to teach swallowing strategies so individuals with dementia can avoid unwanted dietary modifications. She has traveled nationally to consult and speak with other professionals in the medical field who work with people with memory loss or dysphagia. Dr. Benigas received a master's degree in speech-language pathology from Eastern Michigan University and a Ph.D. in speech and hearing science with an interdisciplinary specialization in aging from The Ohio State University. She has taught at several universities across Ohio, Indiana, and New York. She co-authored Spaced Retrieval Step by Step: An Evidence-Based Memory Intervention and is the co-host of the podcasts Fix SLP and Other SLPs' Pockets. Dr. Benigas can be found on social media on Instagram (@Fix.SLP or @MedSLPadvocate) or Facebook (@FixSLP and @MedSLPadvocate).

Rinki Varindani Desai, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S is a medical speech-language pathologist and board-certified specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders. She is the founder of the Medical SLP Forum community, co-creator of the Dysphagia Therapy mobile app, and co-founder of the Swallowing Training and Education Portal online learning platform. Rinki currently serves as a member of ASHA's Scientific and Professional Education Board. She has earned multiple awards for excellence in clinical practice, leadership, advocacy, and clinical education. She has practiced in medical settings across the US for over a decade. In addition to teaching and mentoring graduate students, she has presented nationally and internationally and published several articles on topics related to adult dysphagia. In her downtime, she enjoys reading, writing, cooking, volunteering, and doing what she can to help advance the profession by paying it forward. 

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

Corinne Jones, Ph.D., CCC-SLP delves into how SLPs can analyze and interpret clinical trials to facilitate translation of the science to our clinical practice. There is an emphasis on how clinicians form the foundations of research and how to build synergy with researchers.


Bio
Dr. Corinne Jones is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on Neurology and Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS). She completed her undergraduate studies in Linguistics with a minor in SLHS at Boston University, followed by a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Jones completed her clinical fellowship at the UW Hospital & Clinics, working part-time on the inpatient swallow team while managing a lab in swallowing physiology. She earned her PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Neuroscience at UW-Madison. Currently, she balances her academic role with a day a week of clinical outpatient work at UT Health Austin.

Episode Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4520133
https://grants.nih.gov/policy/clinical-trials/definition.htm
https://grants.nih.gov/policy/humansubjects/policies-and-regulations/data-safety.htm

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

From publication pushback to trailblazing in the continuing education world, Dr. Ianessa Humbert and Rinki Varindani Desai discuss challenges - and payoffs - of infusing new ideas into the field of speech-language pathology. 

Biographies:
Dr. Humbert, PhD is an accomplished scientist, professor, and highly sought-after speaker with expertise and swallowing and swallowing disorders. Dr. Humbert is a world renowned 'Swallowologist,' the CEO and Co-founder of STEP - The Swallowing Training and Education Portal, and the CEO and founder of Swallowing Wellness.

Rinki Varindani Desai is a medical speech-language pathologist and board-certified specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders. She is the founder of the Medical SLP Forum community, co-creator of the Dysphagia Therapy mobile app, and co-founder of the Swallowing Training and Education Portal online learning platform. Rinki currently serves as a member of ASHA's Scientific and Professional Education Board. She has earned multiple awards for excellence in clinical practice, leadership, advocacy, and clinical education. She has practiced in medical settings across the US for over a decade. In addition to teaching and mentoring graduate students, she has presented nationally and internationally and published several articles on topics related to adult dysphagia. In her downtime, she enjoys reading, writing, cooking, volunteering, and doing what she can to help advance the profession by paying it forward.

Resources:
https://www.stepcommunity.com/
https://www.swallowingwellness.com/

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

In perhaps the most laid back and chaotic episode ever, George and Tim discuss factors that influence clinical decision making. This episode discusses foundations to allow medical SLPs to be more empirical and evidence-based our decision making. The discussion exalts the idea of harnessing our ability to think overcome flaws in clinical reasoning and to critically to facilitate more ideal outcomes in patient care.


Bio
George Barnes MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S is a board-certified specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders who has developed expertise in dysphagia management, focusing on diagnostics and clinical decision-making in the medically complex population. George yearns to make education useful and quality care accessible. With a passion for food and a deep appreciation for the joy and connection it brings to our lives, he has dedicated his life to helping others enjoy this simple but deep-rooted pleasure.
George's Course: Complex Decision-Making in Dysphagia Management
George's Blog

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho

In this episode we integrate the experiences of three unique individuals who all landed in the same program, but with vastly different roles: a student, director of clinical education, and an associate professor. Themes include– but aren’t limited to - transitioning from student to clinician, self-assessment, fostering synergy via dialogue & debate, guidance for grads & mentors, and sharing mistakes. This episode is a must-listen for students, mentors, recent graduates, and all who are interested in collaboration and professional development.

Due to microphone placement, setting, room acoustics, and other factors, the audio quality in this episode is somewhat different than other episodes.

Bios:

Wendy Chase, MA, CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist who joined Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in July 2017 in the position of Director of Clinical Education/Assistant Professor. Ms. Chase earned her BS at Central Michigan University and her MA at Northwestern University. She has more than 30 years of experience in clinical positions treating clients from infancy through geriatrics. Her interests are focused on clinical education, gender affirming communication treatment, and management of swallowing and voice in clients with ventilator dependency.

Phil Sechtem, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an associate professor in the MS MedSLP Program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. His academic, teaching, and scholarly interests include the neurologic underpinnings of typical and atypical communication, voice, and swallowing structures and functions. He is a clinical educator within the Center for Communication Disorders on the campus of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions and he conducts and trains graduate-level endoscopic voice and swallowing methods and procedures for advanced interpretation and management of relevant patient populations.

Russell deJesus, MS, CCC-SLP (he/him/his) is a Filipino-American immigrant from Eagle Mountain, Utah. He graduated with his Bachelor's in Communication Disorders from Brigham Young University, with his Master's with a medical emphasis from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, and is in his PhD program at the University of Utah. He currently lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with his wife and no kids, where he likes to spend time with family and be active outdoors.

Gap Education:
https://swallowthegap.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho