Lecture 1 - Introduction to Communication Disorders - AI powered questions Flashcards
(29 cards)
What is the focus of the course on adult communication disorders?
Disorders treated in adults by speech-language pathologists
The course may also be referred to as medical Speech-Language Pathology or organic speech disorders.
Where do most speech-language pathologists work?
Approximately half work in schools, while nearly 40% provide services in health care settings
Other settings include universities and colleges.
What types of disorders do speech-language pathologists treat in adults?
Speech, language, and swallowing difficulties
Some individuals may present with all three problems.
What is a common reason adults are referred to speech-language pathologists?
They typically have a medical diagnosis from a physician
Occasionally, a communication disorder may be the first sign of an undiagnosed condition.
What role do speech-language pathologists play in acute care hospitals?
Primarily focused on assessment and diagnostic activity
Treatment may be deferred to other settings due to short patient stays.
What is the goal of speech-language pathologists in rehabilitation centers?
Capitalize on patients’ physiologic recovery to maximize rehabilitation outcomes
Patients may spend weeks or months in these settings.
What types of care do speech-language pathologists provide in nursing homes?
Maintenance care for swallowing issues and assistance with communication needs
They may travel between facilities to provide these services.
What is required for speech-language pathologist graduate programs?
All accredited programs must train students in key areas, preparing them as generalists
Students gain entry-level skills to work with any age group and communication disorders.
What is the importance of continuing education for speech-language pathologists?
To stay up to date with changes in medical practices and technologies
ASHA requires reporting of continuing education every three years.
What are some advanced areas of practice in speech-language pathology that require additional training?
Head and neck cancer, tracheostomy care, and ventilator care
Hands-on training with experienced clinicians is essential.
What is evidence-based practice in speech-language pathology?
Using scientific evidence to guide assessment and treatment
Staying informed about new findings is crucial for effective practice.
What role do speech-language pathologists play in education and counseling?
Educate patients and families about communication disorders and rehabilitation outlook
They help families understand the impact of disorders and expected recovery.
What is a key limitation of speech-language pathologists regarding medical diagnoses?
They cannot make medical diagnoses but can assess communication disorders
They may label the severity of a communication disorder but not suggest a medical condition.
True or False: Speech-language pathologists can predict a patient’s recovery with absolute certainty.
False
They can offer general expectations based on experience but not guarantees.
Fill in the blank: Speech-language pathologists provide services in _______ settings for adults.
[health care]
What is a common condition that might first present as a communication disorder?
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
Patients may notice deteriorating speech quality before seeking medical help.
What type of communication devices have evolved for individuals who cannot speak?
Alternative and augmentative communication devices
Modern technology includes apps that perform functions of older, expensive systems.
What is the role of a speech language pathologist regarding medical diagnoses?
The speech language pathologist can diagnose communication disorders but cannot suggest a specific medical diagnosis.
For example, if a patient shows signs of ALS, the SLP can only indicate a potential neurological basis for the disorder.
What is a multi-disciplinary team in a medical setting?
A multi-disciplinary team consists of various professionals who collaborate to provide comprehensive care for patients.
Team members may include physicians, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, respiratory therapists, dietitians, and psychologists.
Who oversees the general medical care of patients in a multi-disciplinary team?
Physicians oversee the general medical care of patients.
They may also order imaging evaluations or prescribe medications.
What role do nurses play in a multi-disciplinary team?
Nurses are with patients constantly and keep accurate records of the patient’s status over time.
They are essential for monitoring patient progress.
How do physical therapists contribute to patient care in a multi-disciplinary team?
Physical therapists help patients with mobility issues, which may arise from conditions like strokes.
They often work with the same patients as speech language pathologists.
What is the function of occupational therapists in patient care?
Occupational therapists assist individuals with activities of daily living and rehabilitation of fine motor skills.
This includes tasks like writing and managing utensils.
What is the role of dietitians in a multi-disciplinary team?
Dietitians work closely with speech language pathologists to modify diets for patients with swallowing disorders.
This is crucial to prevent risks such as aspiration and pneumonia.