Clinical swallow evaluation

A clinical swallow evaluation is a healthcare assessment used to determine how well a person swallows food and liquids. During the evaluation, a specialist observes the patient's swallowing process, often using different textures and temperatures of food or drink. They assess the safety and efficiency of swallowing, watching for any signs of difficulty, coughing, or choking. This evaluation helps identify swallowing disorders and guides appropriate treatment options, ensuring the patient can eat and drink safely and comfortably. It plays a crucial role in preventing complications like aspiration pneumonia or malnutrition.