ASHA Learning Pass

In this video course, Nancy B. Swigert introduces the components of the normal adult swallow across all phases. The course features clearly labeled animations and videos of instrumental studies – e.g., videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS) and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluations of swallowing (FEES) – at different speeds to guide clinicians’ ability to interpret the imagery. The course also includes interactive “quizzes” throughout, which provide feedback on application of concepts. The course is designed to give clinicians the confidence to discuss normal anatomy and physiology of all phases of adult swallowing with patients, caregivers, and medical professionals, and to use their knowledge to accurately assess swallow function.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• describe structures, spaces, and function of the oral phases as well as pharyngeal phase of adult swallowing
• describe normal function of the esophagus during swallow of liquids and solids
• discuss the relationship between safety and efficiency of swallowing

Related Courses

This course is part of the Fundamentals of Dysphagia learning path.

This learning path is designed for clinicians who are new to the area of swallowing disorders—as well as experienced clinicians who want a refresher. Taken together, these courses provide a comprehensive overview of dysphagia assessment and treatment.

What is a learning path? A learning path is a curated set of courses on an essential topic, designed for you to take in order—or in whatever order you wish—as you have time in your schedule. Our learning paths identify sets of key courses so you can get on your way to mastering particular areas of practice according to your needs, priorities, and interests.

Presenter Information

Nancy B. Swigert, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, is president of Swigert & Associates, Inc., providing consulting and teaching. She is the former Director of Speech-Language Pathology and Respiratory Care at Baptist Health Lexington at their acute care facility in Lexington, Kentucky. Prior to that she had a private practice for 25 years. Swigert is a Board Certified Specialist in Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders and chaired the American Board of Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders from 2012–2014. Her main clinical interests are in the areas of pediatric and adult dysphagia. She lectures extensively in those areas. She also writes and lectures on coding, documentation, reimbursement, and other practice management topics. Her new book, Documentation and Reimbursement for Speech-Language Pathologists, was published in 2018. The 4th edition of The Source for Dysphagia was released in 2019. She served on ASHA’s Health Care Economics Committee for 9 years and chaired it for 6. Swigert received her master’s degree from the University of Tennessee–Knoxville. She received the Honors of ASHA in 2015.

Financial Disclosures:

• Book royalties from ProEd 
• Financial compensation from ASHA for this presentation

Nonfinancial Disclosures:

• Member of the Medical Advisory Board of the National Foundation on Swallowing Disorders

Assessment Type

Self-assessment—Think about what you learned and report on the Completion Form how you will use your new knowledge.

To earn continuing education credit, you must complete the learning assessment by the end date below.

Program History and CE Information

Content origination date: May 6, 2019
End date: June 17, 2024

This course is offered for 0.2 ASHA CEUs (Introductory level, Professional area).