In speech therapy, assessment, differential diagnosis and intervention are carried out in different areas, ranging from communication to swallowing, in all age groups. Speech therapists thus have specialized technical skills to meet some specific needs of COVID-19 patients . With the growing evidence of a link between communication disorders, swallowing difficulties and changes in the airways associated with infection by COVID-19, these technicians can play an important role in several circumstances, namely: Loss of strength, muscle atrophy and myopathy; Respiratory failure; Tracheostomies; Laryngeal and airway complications; Neurological injuries. The importance of the speech therapist in hospital care has been documented, intervening in a preventive, early and/or intensive manner, with a reduction in hospital stay length of stay and thus with costs associated with the disease. According to the guidelines of the World Health Organization, it is recommended during the acute phase of the disease in hospitalized patients for COVID-19 clinical follow-up, the intervention of specialized technicians to relieve respiratory distress, prevent complications and help communication . Speech therapy interventions In intensive and intermediate care For patients with invasive mechanical ventilation: Implementation of augmentative and alternative forms of communication; Maintenance of oral hygiene; Orofacial motricity training; Safety and efficacy of swallowing. For people with recent extubation: Intervention in swallowing and decision on the type of diet; Evaluation of the impact of oropharyngeal and / or laryngeal injury on speech and voice; Manipulation and help in team decisions about the management of people with tracheostomy and the decannulation process; Communication assessment distinguishing changes in the state of consciousness from changes in language. In general hospital care and in the sequelae after the disease Continued training in chewing and swallowing functions; Guidelines on diet and postural strategies; Orofacial motricity training; Pneumophonoarticulatory coordination training; Guidance for family members and caregivers. Author : Dora Colaço Meet the speech therapy team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
