Which staff member can carry out swallow screens based on competence?

The ability to conduct swallow screens is typically entrusted to registered nurses (RNs) who have received appropriate training. RNs are equipped with the necessary clinical knowledge to assess a patient’s swallowing capabilities, which is essential for identifying potential risks of aspiration and ensuring patient safety, particularly after a stroke.

The rationale behind this choice stems from the nursing curriculum and their role in patient assessment and care planning. RNs are trained to recognize signs of dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and can apply their understanding of anatomy, physiology, and the implications of neurological deficits affecting swallowing.

While other staff members may contribute to patient care, they may not possess the requisite training or clinical judgment to perform swallow assessments reliably. This emphasizes the importance of appropriate training and competence in trust in clinical procedures to maintain high-quality patient care.