CEU Courses for SLPs

Rehabilitation for the total laryngectomy patient following post-surgical hospital discharge, with the goal of independent airway management, is described in this course. Best practices and challenges for pulmonary and communication training in home care and subacute settings are addressed, including electrolarynx use, voice prosthesis care, and tips for obtaining necessary supplies. A case study is included.

This course is designed for the acute care therapist caring for patients with total laryngectomy. Best practices in assessment and treatment during pre-, peri-, and post­operative periods of the acute care admission, as well as discharge planning, are described. Patient education, communication training, and implementation of a pulmonary program are also discussed.

Various intraluminal and peristomal attachment options for Heat Moisture Exchange (HME) systems and/or hands-free devices are described in this course. Selection of the appropriate attachment and techniques for optimal placement/application of the attachment to achieve a good seal are addressed. Troubleshooting strategies for difficult stomal topography are also discussed.

Basic clinical management skills related to pulmonary function and communication after a total laryngectomy are described in this course. Information about medical/surgical treatments, anatomic and physiologic changes, communication options, and pulmonary rehabilitation management is provided.

This course provides information to help participants differentiate between central and peripheral leakage of tracheoesophageal voice prostheses and identify the potential causes. Specific solutions are discussed, including problem-solving applicable to both inpatient and outpatient settings.

This course identifies the basic functions of an artificial larynx as well as strategies to optimize use across both inpatient and outpatient settings. Additionally, it discusses techniques to assess and train patients to use the artificial larynx and apply simple troubleshooting techniques.

This course will provide a literature review addressing the feasibility and utilization of hands-free speech devices, along with a discussion of patient goals and quality-of-life concerns after laryngectomy. Device mechanics and design, patient candidacy, fitting procedures, and problem-solving strategies to support successful hands-free speech will also be covered. This course is presented jointly with Atos Medical.

This course will describe the function of skin, as well as types of and reasons for skin breakdown after total laryngectomy surgery. Participants will learn about practical solutions for preventing and treating irritation from peristomal baseplates, in order to facilitate patients’ ability to wear a Heat Moisture Exchanger for pulmonary rehabilitation. This course is presented jointly with Atos Medical.

This course will discuss anatomical changes that affect the respiratory system after total laryngectomy. An overview of pulmonary sequelae that result from changes in tracheal climate and conditioning, as well as solutions to improve pulmonary health, will be provided. It will also review available heat moisture exchange (HME) devices and the supporting clinical evidence. This course is presented jointly with Atos Medical.