The term dysphagia is used to describe difficulties with swallowing food, liquids, saliva and medication; it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates due to lower respiratory tract infections, dehydration and malnutrition. Dysphagia can be a serious consequence of a brain injury or other neurological conditions. It is essential that neuroscience nurses possess the knowledge and skills to detect the signs and symptoms of dysphagia and are sufficiently competent to perform a routine bedside dysphagia screen to minimise recognised complications and optimise patient care. This article reviews what makes a normal and ‘safe’ swallow and identifies some simple management strategies that can be used in the clinical area to improve care.
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