Dysphagia
This comprehensive course provides essential knowledge and practical guidance to help health and social care workers recognise, assess, and safely support individuals living with dysphagia. It explains what dysphagia is, the common causes and signs to look out for, as well as the serious risks associated with swallowing difficulties.
Learners will explore all aspects of dysphagia and its management, helping staff feel confident in supporting individuals while reducing risks and potential complications.
Designed specifically for health and social care settings, this training supports organisations in promoting safe swallowing practices, improving quality of care, and meeting best practice standards.
Duration:
60-90m
60-90m
Modules:
22
22
About the course
Our Dysphagia Awareness course explores this important topic in depth, helping learners understand how swallowing works, recognise the signs and symptoms of dysphagia, identify those at risk, and implement safe, effective care strategies.
Fully aligned with current UK best practice, this e-learning course provides a comprehensive and practical training solution for anyone supporting people with swallowing difficulties.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for anyone involved in supporting people who may experience swallowing difficulties. It is suitable for both new and experienced staff who need to develop the knowledge and confidence to provide safe, person-centred dysphagia care.
What does the course cover?
- Introduction to dysphagia
- Definition of dysphagia
- Who is affected by dysphagia
- The stages of swallowing
- Oropharyngeal dysphagia
- Oesophageal dysphagia
- Causes
- Risk factors
- Signs and symptoms – physical, psychological, emotional and social
- Impact
- Complications
- Malnutrition and dehydration
- Choking
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Early detection
- Diagnosis including diagnostic testing
- Speech and language therapy
- The multi-disciplinary team
- Encouraging safe feeding
- Treatment options
- Dysphagia management plans
- The IDDSI framework
- Texture modified diets
- Improving nutritional intake and food fortification
- Oral nutritional supplements
- Food presentation
- Drinks and flow tests
- Dysphagia policies
- Medication management
- Oral healthcare
- Enteral feeding
- PEG and RIG feeding
- Intravenous feeding
How is the course assessed?
After each module you will be asked a set of multiple-choice questions. The answers are marked automatically so you instantly know your score.
Every trainee receives a FREE training certificate on completion of the course as evidence for your records.
