Dysphagia: warning signs and management.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Clinical Medicine
• Nursing Science

Background:

• Dysphagia is a common swallowing disorder impacting elderly hospital patients, with an estimated prevalence of 10%.
• It presents with varied indicators and can result from diverse conditions, leading to significant physical, psychological, and social consequences.
• Aspiration, a serious risk, can occur due to food or liquid penetration into the larynx.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of nurses in identifying dysphagia in hospitalized elderly patients.
• To advocate for nurse training in dysphagia screening to facilitate timely referrals.
• To emphasize the importance of national guidelines in managing patients with swallowing difficulties.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on dysphagia prevalence and indicators in elderly populations.
• Analysis of the nursing role in patient observation and early problem identification.
• Examination of existing national guidelines for dysphagia management.

Main Results:

• Nurses are optimally positioned to be the first to detect dysphagia due to continuous patient contact.
• Effective dysphagia screening by nurses can lead to prompt referral to speech and language therapists.
• Availability of national guidelines supports healthcare professionals in patient care.

Conclusions:

• Training nurses in dysphagia screening is essential for early detection and intervention.
• Integrated care involving nurses and speech and language therapists improves patient outcomes.
• Adherence to national guidelines ensures standardized and effective management of dysphagia.