SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Speech Therapist

Performs evaluations of speech, language, cognitive linguistic and swallowing functions on assigned patients based on physician referral. Formulates individualized therapy plans based on physician's orders and the findings of patient's initial assessment. Documentation of written information is clear, concise and well organized. Participates in Interdisciplinary Team Conferences and discharge planning by assessing patient's needs for rehab services to ensure successful transition once discharged to appropriate setting. Provide patient and family with ongoing education and counseling regarding the nature of patient's disorders. Includes patient and family in goal setting process to ensure functional outcomes. Actively participates in unit based/hospital Performance Improvement (PI) projects. Maintains and develops competence through required in-services, continuing education programs, workshops and staff meetings pertinent to relevant areas of clinical practice. Exercises tact, sensitivity, sound judgment & professional attitude when relating to patients/visitors & employees. Adapts conventional speech therapy techniques and treatments to meet the needs of more challenging patients. Selects and/or adapts appropriate screening/evaluation materials for a comprehensive assessment. Obtains/compiles complete case history including current diagnosis, compounding medical issues, past medical history and factors that may affect outcome. Demonstrates competency in assessing/interpreting: Expressive language skills including verbal expression, oral reading and written expression. Receptive language skills including auditory comprehension, reading comprehension & understanding of written information. Cognitive linguistic skills including linguistic orientation, problem solving, immediate/STM & LTM Completes adequate oral peripheral mechanism exam. Performs bedside swallow evaluation and demonstrates knowledge of over / cover signs of oral/pharyngeal dysphagia. Appropriately refers for Video Fluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS). Identifies and interprets oral's pharyngeal phases of swallowing related to VFSS and adequately communicates findings to medical staff. Recommends appropriate consistency diet levels utilizing information form bedside swallow evaluation and VFSS.