training

Course Description

eSWALLOW USA is revolutionizing Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) therapy for the treatment of dysphagia. Now, that same revolution is taking place in the area of NMES 'online training' for the protocols involving the use of estim devices in the treatment of dysphagia.

The eSWALLOW online training program is based on an advanced online training module proven successful. Each SLP will be given a user name and password that grants them access to the secure internet training site. Each SLP will also receive a sample pack of electrodes to aid in the study of electrode placement. Coursework is delivered through interactive media in a step-by-step manner. This use of multi-media content has been proven to be highly successful in the computer online learning environment. The site can be accessed at your convenience anytime, 24 hours a day, allowing SLPs unlimited flexibility in their training schedule. The schedule can easily be completed using a few hours per day over a period of several weeks, all at the SLP's convenience.

Upon successful completion of the online training and the demonstration video, each SLP will be required to complete a minimum of 4 hours of training under the supervision of a SLP who is certified in the use of NMES, and has utilized NMES in treatment for at least 6 months.

Coursework will include detailed presentations on:
- Anatomy and physiology of the swallow mechanism
- The five phases of the swallow are examined with a focus on the issues that are likely to afflict each phase
- Pathophysiology of swallowing, including swallowing interventions specific to impairment
- Characteristic of electrical stimulation and its effect on muscle tissue
- Characteristic of NMES for the treatment of dysphagia, including electrode placement specific to
      impairment

This unique mix of computer online learning and "one-on-one electrode placement training" provides for an outstanding learning experience. When compared with traditional continuing education seminars, the eSWALLOW program excels with its' convenient and cost effective learning advantages.

As always, eSWALLOW USA is seeking to broaden and further the life-saving and enriching results for the treatment of dysphagia. eSWALLOW USA electrodes are FDA approved for NMES treatment of dysphagia and our hand-held unit is currently in the 510K process awaiting FDA approval.

This is an intermediate level course with the following prerequisites:
     1. SLP or OTR with current licensure in state of practice
     2. SLP or OTR in compliance with state and national practice acts
     3. Experience and knowledge in dysphagia management

Certificate of Completion will be awarded to those who:
     1. Complete the online training with post-test of each section
     2. Complete a minimum of four hours training under supervision of qualified SLP

Course Objectives:
- Identify the anatomical structures of the swallow mechanism.
- Palpate the "surface anatomy" of the neck, essential in electrode placement and the treatment of
     dysphagia.
- Describe the 5 distinct phases of the normal swallow, including physiological responses and the
     neurogenic control.
- Describe the pathophysiological symptoms and disorders and their affect on swallowing.
- Interpret and Categorize Swallowing Deficits.
- Describe the basic characteristic of electrical stimulation and its effect on muscle tissue.
- Describe the characteristic of NMES for the treatment of swallowing.
- Describe the key points and considerations of electrode positioning for the treatment of swallowing.
- Discuss and demonstrate understanding of swallowing interventions related to impairment and swallowing
     phase.
- Discuss and demonstrate effective electrode placement specific to the dysphagia impairment.
- Discuss necessity of the use of swallowing interventions to maximize the affects of NMES.

The eSWALLOW USA NMES includes the online training course for 1.0 CEU's (10 Contact hours) and the hands on training with DVD guidance and the hands on four-hour minimum training with a qualified SLP or OTR for .6 CEU's (6 Contact hours) for a total of 1.6 CEU's (16 contact hours).

Course Instructor(s):

Bo Butler, MA CCC-SLP
Jennifer Cone, M.Ed., CCC-SLP

eSWALLOW USA Course Administrator:

Jennifer Cone, M.Ed., CCC-SLP
Jennifer received her master degree in Speech-Language Pathology in 1995 from Tennessee State University. She has practiced as a Speech Pathologist for more than 15 years and has extensive training and practical experience in the treatment of dysphagia.

In 2003, Jennifer was trained in NMES therapy and has continued to utilize it in the treatment of dysphagia. She is a member of the Alabama Speech and Hearing Association and ASHA, of which she has received numerous ASHA ACE Awards.

Jennifer currently lives in Alabama and works with eSWALLOW USA as the Clinical Director and an Exclusive Distributor of eSWALLOW USA products. She previously held an administrative position as the Director of Operations at Champion Partners in Rehabilitation. In addition, Jennifer has held clinical and administrative positions for Encore Rehab and for National Health Care Corporation.