Water Protocols: From Theory to Practice

Course overview

Healthcare professionals have utilized water protocols in clinical practice to improve patients' hydration, quality of life, and general health outcomes for over 20 years. However, this approach has received pushback from those who believe that the safer or more conservative option is restricting thin water with a strict requirement for thickened liquids when aspiration is present. Assessment of risk for respiratory infection and understanding how to minimize that risk are essential steps in successfully using water protocols. This course discusses essential evidence for the use of thin water when aspiration is present, how to minimize the risk of infection, and how to begin to successfully implement a water protocol program in your practice. The learner will hear practical, real-life case examples from speech-language pathologists across settings, including acute care, skilled nursing, and home health, to address how real-life clinicians have overcome the barriers to implementation. Finally, the Ice Chip Protocol is discussed with special guest Susan Langmore, PhD, as a practical first step when facing resistance or for a very ill patient.