Gap Education
Basic FEES Course
Hybrid, 15 Hour Course
Asynchronous/Online Material +
In-Person on Saturday, August 8, in Tampa, FL
15 Hours of Content for Speech-Language Pathologists Who Already Have Basic Competency in Oropharyngeal Dysphagia
This 15-Hour 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 procedure for performing the evaluation. Topics include patient preparation, equipment handling, safety protocols, and interpretation of findings.
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).
Update: Enrollment is now open!
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.
Course Content
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Expert panel recommendations for FEES training
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FEES regulations
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Adverse reactions
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Contraindications
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Informed consent
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FEES administration
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Gross anatomy through FEES
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Cranial nerves
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Typical vs. atypical anatomy
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FEES protocols
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Equipment and infection control​
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Clinical decision-making​
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Online content review and discussion
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Imposter syndrome
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Typical swallowing physiology
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Strengths and limitations of FEES
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Integrated case discussions
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Standardized tools for FEES
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Equipment orientation
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Mock patient informed consent practice
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Reporting findings
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Scoring and documentation
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Hands-on scoping practice
To receive a certificate for this course, and ASHA CEUs (if eligible and desired), participants must do the following:
1. Complete approximately 5 to 6 hours of online material prior to attending in-person (deadline to complete is 7:00 AM EST August 8, 2026)
2. Attend the entire in-person course on August 8, 2026
3. Complete periodic knowledge checks with a score of 80% (can be retaken as needed)
4. Complete a short exam with 80% accuracy (can be retaken as needed)
5. Complete items related to CEUs on post course survey
(No partial credit is given for this course)
In-Kind Course Sponsors
Instructors
*One or more additional, supporting instructors will be involved with this course with details provided soon)
Cost
Early Bird Rate: $600 (Good through July 15th)
Late Bird Rate: $650 (July 16 - August 7)
Total Course Duration: 15 Hours, split between online and in-person
Online, asynchronous portion of the course (approximately 5-6 hours):
Scheduled for release on or before July 10th and must be completed before the in-person part of the course.
In-Person part of course (Approximately 9-10 hours): August 8th, in Tampa, Florida near the University of South Florida. Specific building TBD.
Start time: 8:00 AM
Update: Enrollment is now open!
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