Vocalizing can be frustrating and tiring with a vent. Speech therapists also help patients find the best way to communicate.
Bedside swallow exams allow a speech therapist to evaluate a patient’s current abilities, modifying their diet accordingly. They assist in determining the best diet or feeding option for patients with trachs and vents. Rehab plans often include a speech therapist who works with patients to retrain and strengthen the muscles necessary in swallowing and speech.įor example, speech therapists can help patients who have difficulty swallowing. How can a Speech Therapist help?ĭid you know that speech therapists can help with more than just speech? With a thorough knowledge of muscles in the mouth and throat, speech therapists are instrumental in helping vent and trach patients regain strength and improve quality of life. Ventilator programs such as ours at Hillcrest Commons can provide the care you need, whether that’s short-term rehab and education to help you return home and live independently, or long term care with activities and amenities to make sure your new normal is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. For other patients, rehab allows them to live independent and active lives. In our experience, some patients can be weaned off of the ventilator entirely through a program of rehabilitation. Will I have to live in a hospital?įor many people living with vents, life at home supported by family or home care is not only possible, but optimal. Specially trained speech therapists can help you strengthen muscles and find the best way for you to communicate, and can even help you find the best way to get nutrition, whether through oral feeding or other means. While you may be able to learn to use a speaking valve, other options include having your lips read, using a letter board, or writing messages using paper or a whiteboard. Speech can present some challenges for people with trachs and vents. Some people may have trouble swallowing due to the trach or other medical conditions, and will require feeding tubes or special diets of softened foods or thickened liquids. Vents do require special attention when it comes to eating. Some patients have a trach but do not require the support of a ventilator. The ventilator, sometimes called the “vent,” is a breathing machine that pumps oxygen into the body through a small cannula inserted into the trach. A tracheostomy, or “trach” (rhymes with “rake”) is a surgically created opening in the throat. Ventilators may sound scary, but they are specialized equipment commonly used to facilitate breathing following illness or injury. The ventilator is attached to me.” Life with a ventilator can bring unique challenges, but the right care can help you gain strength and confidence. As one patient put it, “I’m not attached to the ventilator. We’ve learned never to underestimate our patients, as many individuals with tracheostomies or ventilators can live independent, active lives. While the terms “pulmonary” and “respiratory” are generally used to describe breathing and the lungs, our program takes respiratory care to another level. What does a ventilator mean for me or my loved one? Physical and occupational therapy to increase endurance and ability.
Speech therapy for bedside swallow evaluations and communication strategies.
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