Gap Education
Basic FEES Course
Live, In-Person
Henderson, Nevada
August 1-2
(Friday - Saturday)
16 Hours of Content for Speech-Language Pathologists Who Already Have Basic Competency in Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
This 2 day, in-person, intensive course introduces the principles and practices of Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). Designed for speech-language pathologists looking to enhance their diagnostic skills in dysphagia assessment, this course offers both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Participants will delve into the nuances of the anatomy and physiology of swallowing as captured through endoscopy. The curriculum covers indications and contraindications for FEES, as well as a detailed procedure for performing the evaluation. Topics include patient preparation, equipment handling, safety protocols, and interpretation of findings.
Highly interactive lectures, demonstrations, case studies, and supervised practice sessions ensure an engaging and comprehensive learning experience. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the foundational knowledge to conduct FEES.
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Please contact Tim@SwallowtheGap.com for input or assistance regarding special needs (eg, dietary, visual, hearing, physical).
Learning Objectives
01
Anatomy
Identify key anatomical features relevant to FEES via clinical observation and endoscopically.
02
Typical vs. Atypical
Differentiate between typical and atypical anatomical appearance and functions related to nasal, pharyngeal, laryngeal, and tracheal regions as viewed via transnasal endoscopy.
03
Utility and Limitations
Recognize the utility and limitations of FEES in various clinical scenarios, including contraindications and the impact of specific patient conditions.
04
Hands-On Skills
Complete transnasal endoscopic passes with supervision, utilizing proper technique and monitoring patient/participant comfort.
Learning Objectives
05
Critical Thinking
Assess swallowing function with various consistencies of foods and liquids using transnasal endoscopy.
06
Pre - PO Trial Assessment
Assess the management of oropharyngeal secretions, noting any deviations from expected patterns.
07
Diagnosis
Assess swallowing physiology as visualized via transnasal endoscopy in a way that compliments your prior diagnostic skills.
08
Patient Specificity
Demonstrate technique for passing a transnasal endoscope to visualize and assess function of the of the pharynx and larynx for swallowing.
Learning Objectives
09
Management Techniques
Discuss management options for the FEES examination to address swallowing problems, such as the use of therapeutic maneuvers and interventions.
10
Clinical Adaptation
Evaluate participant responses to therapeutic strategies using endoscopy, adjusting technique as necessary to improve swallowing function and airway protection.
11
Infection Control
Apply infection control technique effectively during the setup, execution, and post-procedure stages of FEES to facilitate a safe environment for both patient and healthcare provider.
12
Documentation
Document a FEES study with background, data, basic clinical interpretation / impressions, and recommendations.
Schedule
Day 1​
08:00 AM - 09:15 AM
Introduction: ASHA position, familiarity with regulations, potentially adverse reactions, contraindication, informed consent, and due diligence.
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09:15 AM - 09:30 AM
Imposter Syndrome
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09:30 AM - 10:15 AM
Gross Anatomy through FEES & Cranial Nerves
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10:15 AM - 10:30 AM
Break
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10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
Equipment and Infection Control
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11:15 AM - 12:30 PM
Strengths and Limitations of Transnasal Endoscopy for Swallowing Evaluation: Comparison, Physiology, and Integration
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12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch Break
01:30 PM - 02:15 PM
Scoring Swallow Function with Purpose & Precision
02:15 PM - 2:45 PM
Case Based Scoring Practice
02:45 PM - 03:30 PM
Protocol and Clinical Decision-Making in FEES
03:3o AM - 03:45 AM
Break
03:45 PM - 04:45 PM
Essentials of FEES Documentation
04:45 PM - 05:15 PM
Case-Based Integration Session 1: Documentation
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​05:15 PM – 5:30 PM
Day 1 post-exam & Preview of Day 2
Day 2
08:00 AM - 08:15 AM
Intro and Reflection: Intro to Day 2 and reflection on Day 1 material integration
08:15 AM - 08:45 AM
Case-Based Integration Session 3: Differential Interpretation & Decision-Making
08:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Hands-On Practice
09:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Break
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Case-Based Integration Session 4: Application of Findings to Treatment
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10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Hand on Practice with Pair and Share
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​12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch
1:30 PM - 4:45 PM
Hand on Practice with Pair and Share Continued
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04:45 PM - 05:00 PM
Course Conclusion: Tying up Loose Ends
05:00 PM - 05:15 PM
Post Test
To receive a certificate and ASHA CEUs for this course, participant must do the following:
1. Attend the entire course on both days
2. Complete a short exam with 80% accuracy
3. Complete items related to CEUs on post course survey
(No partial credit is given for this course)
In-Kind Course Sponsors
Location Provided By Henderson Health and Rehab
Scopes for Training Provided ATMOS and PatCom Medical
Meet the Instructors
Instructor Disclosures
Tim Stockdale, SLPD, CCC-SLP
Financial Disclosures
Gap Education, LLC - Owner - Royalties and Salary
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions - Salary & Royalties
Intermountain Health - Salary
Non Financial Disclosures
ASHA SIG-13 Professional Development Committee Volunteer
Jeanette Benigas, PhD, SLP
Financial Disclosures
Safe Swallowing Diagnostics, LLC - Owner - Royalties and Salary
Medbridge - Course Author - Royalties
Western Reserve Hospital - Salary
Non Financial Disclosures
Fix SLP - Owner and Operations Director
