In-patients:
The speech and language therapy (SLT) team see patients with neurogenic conditions on the neurosciences wards, ITU wards and any outlying wards. In addition we offer an in-patient service at Marie Foster Centre based at High Barnet.
Appropriate patients include:
- patients with undiagnosed conditions where diagnosis of speech and communication would help with localisation of damage,
- patients whose cranial nerves have been affected due to disease or surgery,
- patients with movement disorders affecting speech, swallow and communication,
- patients with communication or swallow problems due to stroke,
- patients with early cognitive decline that is affecting communication functioning,
- tracheostomy/ventilator dependant patients who require assessment and facilitation of communication and swallow function and advice regarding tracheostomy weaning,
- patients requiring assessment and management of augmentative and/or alternative communication methods/devices,
- patients who are minimally conscious who require passive range of motion exercises to facilitate oral movements, stimulate swallowing movements and prevent excessive facial/jaw tone,
- any other patient presenting with neurogenic communication or swallowing difficulties, and
- condition management for patients who have long term neurogenic conditions.
Out-patients:
The SLT team provides an out-patient service for stroke patients living in the North Camden area. The team also provides an ‘assess and advise’ service to out-patients seen in neurosciences out-patient clinics.
Instrumental Dysphagia Assessment:
Videofluoroscopy (VFS) and fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) are available for in-patients and out-patients.
Discharge:
Upon discharge all patients that require ongoing communication and swallow intervention will be referred to their local SLT team or other appropriate service with a copy of the SLT/MDT report sent to the GP, patient and consultant.
For further information, please contact:
Dijana Wolffram
Clinical lead neurosciences/critical care
Telephone number: 020 7472 6289 or extension: 33632/bleep: 1535
Email: dijana.wolffram@nhs.net
Catherine Desforges
Clinical lead stroke/elderly
Bleep: 1491
Email: catherine.desforges@nhs.net
Michelle Humphrey
Clinical lead stroke/elderly
Bleep: 1312
Email: michelle.humphrey@nhs.net
Further information on speech and language therapy services