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Management Of Swallowing Disorders: A Program For Professionals Working In Rural Areas, Kathleen D. Sims Mcsd/Ccc-Slp, Sue Reinsel-Garcia Otr/L, Kathy M. Love Ma/Ccc-Slp, Elizabeth Kohler Ed.D., O.T.R., University Of Montana Rural Institute

Health and Wellness

Research indicates that 74% of all nursing home patients experience eating difficulties sometime during their stay (Trupe, Siebens, & Siebens, 1984). Additionally, 59% of patients suffering from stroke experience some degree of dysphagia and aspiration difficulties (Echelard, Thoppil, & Melvin 1984). A significant number of the high risk dysphagia patients described above suffer from life threatening aspiration pneumonia. Consequently the management of swallowing disorders (Dysphagia) is of critical concern to hospital and nursing home personnel. Patients specficially at risk for dysphagia, according to recent studies, include those with head injury, stroke (CVA), and cerebral palsy. Also, patients experiencing cancer of …