Materials for dysphagia evaluations, as a speech therapist we are always on the go. We complete dysphagia evaluations just about anywhere so we need to have our materials on hand. If you are looking for ideas of the most essential tools this post is for you. If you are just starting off in the SNF or are a home health speech therapist this post will help you get started!
All the materials required for a speech therapist to complete a dysphagia evaluation. The materials listed below are Amazon Affiliate Link.
- Pen Light to complete oral mechanism
2. Tongue Depressors to complete oral mechanism. Make sure the one you purchase have them individually wrapped.
3. Mouth Swabs for oral mech and oral care
4. Clipboard for dysphagia evaluation forms
5. Straws for testing liquids
6. Paper Plate and Utensils, walking into a home you never know what you will be walking into and what the patients situation is. Your company may make you bring your own materials to be PPE compliant.
7. Mildly Thick Packets, these packets are good for a long time and are easy to transport for evaluations
8. Easy food to bring to trial diet textures
Puree: These pudding packs are dairy free and are small and easy to carry. Just squeeze a little on a spoon during trials.
Minced and Moist and Soft and Bite Size: Nutrigrain bars are nice and soft and can be made into both textures for your evaluation.
Regular Textures: Lorna Doone Cookies are a great choice, they are individually wrapped and a neutral flavor.
This list includes everything you need to rock you dysphagia evaluations!
If you want more Ideas, follow for more!
Please see my other article for FREE standardized assessments for dysphagia
