The Dysphagia Training Course is specifically designed for healthcare professionals, carers, and support workers who care for individuals with swallowing difficulties. Dysphagia can affect people of all ages and is often associated with conditions such as stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological disorders. This course provides participants with a thorough understanding of dysphagia, its causes, and its impact on individuals. It covers the assessment and management of swallowing difficulties, the risks associated with dysphagia, and practical strategies for ensuring safe and effective care. The course emphasises the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and the role of various healthcare professionals in supporting individuals with dysphagia.
 
Course Content:
 
Introduction to Dysphagia: Understanding what dysphagia is, including its definition, causes, and the different types of swallowing difficulties.
Causes and Risk Factors: Exploration of the common causes of dysphagia, including neurological conditions, ageing, and physical obstructions, as well as risk factors that can exacerbate swallowing difficulties.
Impact of Dysphagia: Understanding the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of dysphagia on individuals, including the risks of malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia.
Recognising Symptoms: Identifying the signs and symptoms of dysphagia, such as coughing during meals, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained weight loss.
Assessment of Dysphagia: Overview of the assessment process, including the role of speech and language therapists, swallow assessments, and the use of diagnostic tools.
Management Strategies: Practical strategies for managing dysphagia, including dietary modifications, texture modification of foods and liquids, and safe feeding techniques.
Safe Feeding Practices: Guidance on how to assist individuals with eating and drinking safely, including posture management, pacing, and the use of adaptive equipment.
Multidisciplinary Approach: The importance of working with a multidisciplinary team, including speech and language therapists, dietitians, and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Overview of the legal and ethical issues related to dysphagia care, including informed consent, capacity, and safeguarding.
Support for Families and Carers: Providing support and education to families and carers on managing dysphagia at home and understanding the risks and safety measures.
 
Learning Outcomes: By the end of the Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties) Training Course, participants will be able to:
 
Understand Dysphagia: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of dysphagia, including its causes, types, and the impact it has on individuals.
Identify Symptoms: Recognise the signs and symptoms of dysphagia, enabling early identification and intervention.
Assess Swallowing Difficulties: Understand the assessment process for dysphagia and the role of different healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing the condition.
Implement Management Strategies: Apply practical strategies to manage dysphagia, including modifying food and liquid textures, and using safe feeding techniques.
Ensure Safe Feeding Practices: Assist individuals with eating and drinking in a safe and supportive manner, reducing the risk of choking and aspiration.
Work in a Multidisciplinary Team: Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care and support for individuals with dysphagia.
Address Legal and Ethical Issues: Demonstrate knowledge of the legal and ethical considerations in dysphagia care, including issues related to consent and safeguarding.
Support Families and Carers: Provide education and support to families and carers, helping them to manage dysphagia at home and understand the associated risks.
 
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective care for individuals with dysphagia. They will receive certification recognising their competence in managing swallowing difficulties and their commitment to improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition.