Pediatric Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies: Competency for Speech-Language Pathologists

The only in-depth resource on Pediatric VFSS, covering preparation, interpretation, caregiver counseling, and advanced clinical reasoning!

Merging the latest research with real-world clinical expertise, Pediatric Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies: Competency for Speech-Language Pathologists provides clinicians and graduate students with information vital to achieving competency in conducting a successful pediatric Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS). It specifically focuses on the Dysphagia Competency Verification Tool for the VFSS and goes one step further by considering the competencies within the pediatric population. It provides the kind of in-depth preparation needed to carry out the assessment process and coordination with other members of the interdisciplinary team in a medical setting.  Extensive visual reinforcement (x-ray images) along with detailed descriptions of the assessment process include a case history questionnaire, caregiver considerations, pediatric patient issues, radiology issues, a value scale, along with many practical suggestions for working with the child in the clinical setting and with other members of the team. 

This text may be used as a clinical reference or as an instructional tool. Book content may be introduced prior to “watch-shadow-do” processes of training or used concurrently. The knowledge and skills covered in the text are thorough enough for newcomers to pediatrics or pediatric SLPs new to VFSS. Those who already have clinical expertise, supervisor or expert, will also benefit from the content which offers depth of material for each topic.

The book concludes with a unique chapter addressing the mental health challenges of VFSS clinicians, supporting practitioner well-being and resilience.

Key Features

• Uses the guidance of the American Board of Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (ABSSD) and America Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) guidelines on VFSS competency, and covers Joint Commission requirements of the medical workplace where the pediatric VFSS is conducted
• Organized by the 30 line items of the DCVT VFSS Specialty Skill in logical sections with chapters that mirror the clinical VFSS process, allowing the reader to build knowledge as they read, or reference it as a resource
• Includes case studies, scripts, and clinical decision-making algorithms help the clinician bridge the gap between theory and practice
• Contains multiple helpful appendices, including summaries of disorders, protocols, practical checklists and VFSS tips to guide clinicians through complex cases
• Focuses on caregiver counseling and psychosocial considerations, supporting compassionate, family-centered care
• Glossary of key terms

PluralPlus Online Ancillaries

For instructors: PowerPoint Slides, Test Bank