Functional Swallowing Part 2: Adverse Events and Nutrition
Presented by Tim Stockdale
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Dysphagia can lead to serious adverse health outcomes. This course explores the mechanisms underlying these challenges, emphasizing the importance of addressing functional swallowing outcomes over isolated observations. Designed for speech-language pathologists and other healthcare professionals who work with dysphagia, the course highlights patient-specific factors contributing to pulmonary complications and nutritional deficits. It provides practical, evidence-based strategies for mitigating these risks while considering the pros and cons of common interventions.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the mechanisms by which dysphagia contributes to malnutrition
- Determine the effects of malnutrition on patient health, such as immune function, physical strength, and recovery from illness
- Apply strategies to mitigate malnutrition in dysphagic patients while considering the potential negative impacts of certain dysphagia interventions
- Analyze the processes of ventilation, external respiration, and internal respiration
- Identify adverse health outcomes associated with disordered swallowing
- Examine the mechanisms of pulmonary clearance and their role in preventing complications such as aspiration pneumonia and asphyxiation
Meet your instructor

Tim Stockdale
Timothy (Tim) Stockdale has served as a speech-language pathologist primarily in university and acute care settings. He has taught at the graduate level for several years, focusing on adult dysphagia and acquired communication disorders. He is particularly passionate about addressing gaps in dysphagia education and practice.…
Chapters & learning objectives

1. Dysphagia and Adverse Health Outcomes
Chapter 1 focuses on the adverse health outcomes associated with dysphagia, such as pneumonia, asphyxiation, pulmonary edema, and related complications. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the mechanisms contributing to these outcomes and shifting focus from isolated observations to functional swallowing outcomes. The chapter highlights the role of proactive, patient-specific interventions to mitigate risks and improve overall health.

2. Nutrition and Malnutrition
Chapter 2 examines the mechanisms by which dysphagia contributes to malnutrition, including inefficient swallowing, prolonged mealtimes, and food avoidance. It discusses the effects of malnutrition on patient health, such as weakened immune function, impaired recovery, and reduced functional reserves. The chapter highlights the need to address these risks through evidence-based, multidisciplinary approaches.

3. Identifying, Collaborating, and Addressing Malnutrition
Chapter 3 focuses on assessing malnutrition risk in patients with dysphagia and implementing individualized interventions. It underscores the importance of patient participation in dietary decisions and the judicious use of diet modifications to balance safety with nutritional intake. Collaboration with dietitians and other professionals is emphasized to ensure comprehensive care while respecting patient autonomy.