Improving Outcomes. The importance of educational tools in head and neck therapy.
Education about voice rehabilitation is an important component of recovery for patients with laryngectomy. Continued speech, language, and swallowing therapy is key in helping patients maintain clear speech and safe, effective swallowing following head and neck cancer treatment.
Speech therapy resources for treating patients with laryngectomy are constantly evolving. New speech therapy tools are increasing health & laryngectomy literacy, empowering patients and caregivers, and helping Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) / Speech Language Therapists (SLT) enhance the education they provide patients resulting in improved treatment outcomes.
There are a lot of educational tools out there that you can use, whether it be when you’re interviewing your patient, education or small learning groups, they are all so effective in helping you really make sure the patient is understanding the information that you’re giving them.
Speech Language Pathologists Caroline Murray and Josie Alston speaking at the ASHA Convention*
Laryngeal cancer
Laryngeal cancer is the second most common cancer of the upper aerodigestive tract. Worldwide, it accounts for 130,000 new cases per year in men and 21,000 in women, with significant differences in incidence across countries. Research shows that head and neck cancers will grow exponentially in the next few years, and it’s important that Healthcare Professionals and SLPs/SLTs have access to innovative and reliable education resources to give these patients the support they need.
New tools for the patients of today.
During the last 10 years, the tools offered to patients have evolved immensely. Educational materials have changed from the printed materials that were provided to them in the past – brochures, folders and pamphlets – to digital materials such as websites, videos, apps and more, that can be accessed by anyone with a device from anywhere, by simply using a weblink or QR code.
These digital tools bridge the gap between the hospital and home to give patients the information they need for peace of mind during a time with a lot of unknowns. They also make it easier for patients to find support networks or people that they can identify with. Instagram, for example, has laryngectomy ‘influencers’ on the platform that patients, caregivers and SLPs can follow for inspiration.
The generally widespread digital literacy of our society makes watching videos or downloading an app to their device second nature to patients who are used to navigating the digital landscape and using apps for their hobbies or interests. These videos and apps can show techniques for speech therapy in context, making it easier for someone who learns by watching or struggles with written instructions.
Speech Language Pathologists can use these new tools to complement the patient’s therapy plan and allow them to decide what best fits their lifestyle and needs. This allows SLPs to focus on the actual outcomes and empowering patients to live their lives and make their own decisions about their care.
Healthcare changes so much so rapidly that three years ago I would not have expected my patient to be able to download via a QR code. …they’re much more capable of using new technology for telehealth visits. They’re much more capable of going to a website and watching a video and it really has changed how we educate our patients. It’s just an easier way to access information. And we may have to help them at first to get it on their phone, but once they have it and they know how to find it, it’s much better for them.
Speech Language Pathologists Caroline Murray and Josie Alston speaking at the ASHA Convention*
Where can you begin for your patients with laryngectomy?
Visual aids
Visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and videos can be used to illustrate complex concepts. For example, a diagram of the anatomy of the throat and mouth can help patients better understand how their condition is affecting their ability to speak and swallow.
Websites
The website Laryngectomy.info is an informational resource helping patients better understand the condition and how a total laryngectomy affects communication and swallowing function. The website includes a variety of educational materials for patients, including videos and handouts. Speech language therapists can use these materials to supplement their in-person therapy sessions, providing patients with additional resources to learn about their new condition in their own time.
Apps
The free Atos MyLife app is a great resource for patients and SLPs. In the app, patients can find exercises for their voice to improve breathing and speaking. The app also allows patients to view new products that can improve their overall quality of life and read articles and blogs that can provide insightful information that makes living with a stoma easier.
Speech language therapists can use the information and exercises in the app to supplement their in-person therapy sessions, providing patients with additional resources to practice at home.
The app can be especially helpful for patients who have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments or who have questions or concerns that arise between appointments. The Atos MyLife app is not meant to substitute for individual advice or guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. It should be used as a supplement and inspiration to achieve a better quality of life.
Laryngectomy.info and the Atos MyLife app (available on the Google or Apple app stores) are just two of many online educational tools that can be used in head and neck therapy.
* The ASHA Convention is a US annual professional development and networking event for speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists.
Share
Save to my content
