Aspiration Pneumonia Risk Factors and Prevention in Dysphagia Patients - SOD

Course overview

Aspiration pneumonia is an important and dangerous consequence of dysphagia but every patient with swallowing impairment does not necessarily develop pneumonia. More frequently, dysphagia clinicians are being asked to assess not just aspiration risk but risk of developing pneumonia from aspiration. How do we accomplish that? By identifying the factors that potentially increase the risk of pneumonia in our patients with swallowing disorders. This course will review the evidence base in the areas of aspiration and aspiration pneumonia and will describe the risk factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, for pneumonia in various patient populations, including respiratory compromise, reduced oral health, dehydration and undernutrition. Strategies to mitigate pneumonia risk via addressing modifiable risk factors, including oral hygiene techniques, free water protocols, and nutritional interventions will be discussed.