Let Us Help You Improve Dysphagia Outcomes
Imaging
Speech-language pathologists are amazing, but we don't have x-ray vision. This is why dysphagia imaging is so very important. Every single patient with suspected dysphagia deserves timely and quality imaging in order to aid in treatment decisions and ensure the most positive outcome possible. FEES imaging is well tolerated, evidence-based, and does not require radiation or ingestion of barium. We aren't controlled by radiation exposure time limits, so we can spend all the time we need to ensure we have the information needed to make the best possible recommendations.
assessment
We do a lot more than just imaging. There are many, many factors that go into a comprehensive dysphagia consultation. Our speech-language pathologist takes the time necessary to review lab results and medical history, discuss patient and family wishes, and consult with the treating speech-language pathologist and nursing staff to come up with a treatment approach that is evidence-based and takes into account the patient's quality of life. We are firm believers that there is no such thing as a "one size fits all" approach in dysphagia treatment and we strive to tailor treatment and dietary decisions to each patient.
SLP education & Mentoring
Speech-language pathologists often exist in our own little "islands". As such, we frequently do not have another speech-language pathologist readily available to bounce treatment ideas off of or go to for support. North Louisiana Swallow Solutions aims to bridge those "dysphagia islands" and be a readily available resource to help facility speech-language pathologists overcome the many barriers to positive treatment outcomes. Whether it's providing evidence-based treatment ideas, handling a complicated dietary level decision, or dealing with a new facility and caseload, we are there to help.
staff training & FREE inservices
We proudly provide a variety of staff training & inservice options to help train facility staff and patient caregivers on the best practices for individuals with dysphagia. We also understand that inservices are rarely considered to be "fun", which is why we go out of our way to create learning events that engage staff and provide motivation to utilize the skills covered during the inservice. Pizza, games, and door prizes increase engagement and in turn help improve patient's therapeutic outcomes and decrease rehospitalizations.
speaking events
North Louisiana Swallow Solutions is dedicated to our mission of increasing public awareness of swallowing disorders. To this effect, we are willing to come speak at health fairs, conventions, or any type of support group gatherings. We can develop a talk on a specific topic or disease such as M.S. or Parkinson's disease or we can provide general information on swallowing disorders. And of course, we are ALWAYS willing to give a demonstration of FEES! Large groups or small, we'll talk to them all!
outreach
Our students are our future. And it behooves us to provide role models for them. North Louisiana Swallow Solutions gladly participates in both college and high school job fairs and events to promote the field of speech-language pathology and encourage young students to pursue this amazing and challenging field. We welcome student observers and encourage current and prospective graduate students to come watch and participate in a FEES evaluation. We also provide a welcoming environment where questions and curiosity are encouraged.