Nurse-Led Short Swallowing Screening for Older Adult Patients in Medical Wards: An Evidence-Based Quality Improvement Project
Care Process & Redesign
National University Health System Quality Improvement
National University Health System
31 December 2021
Implement nurse-led speech therapist referral using a Short Swallowing Screening (3S) tool for early dysphagia detection. The initiative improved patient safety, empowered nurses, and enhanced dietary management for older adults.
Year Submitted: 2021
Published Date: 31 December 2021
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Quality Improvement, Workflow Redesign, Risk Management, Adverse Outcome Reduction, Preventive Approach
About this Content
Aims
Implement nurse-led speech therapist referral using a Short Swallowing Screening (3S) tool for early dysphagia detection.
Background
Dysphagia in older adults is associated with malnutrition, choking, and pneumonia, but screening was not routinely conducted.
Methods
Nurses trained to use 3S tool for early screening; workflows integrated into EPIC, and diets standardized via IDDSI.
Results
Improved timely referrals to speech therapists; reduced choking incidents; 8824 patients benefited across phases.
Conclusion
The initiative improved patient safety, empowered nurses, and enhanced dietary management for older adults.
Lessons Learnt
Assessing root causes, leveraging feedback, and fostering multidisciplinary teamwork are essential.
Keywords
Dysphagia, Swallowing Screening Tool, Malnutrition, Pneumonia
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National University Health System |
Organization(s) Involved | National University Hospital |
Platform(s) | National University Health System Quality Improvement |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health, Nursing, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Speech Therapy, Geriatric Medicine |
Project Lead(s) | Naw Hnin Yee Aye, Guo Yiting Emily |
Project Member(s) | Chloe Ang |
Connect with this contributor!
Guo Yiting Emily - emily_yt_guo@nuhs.edu.sg
Project Attachment
C_355_NUH_NUH_QI_Nurse_Led_Short_Swallowing_Screening_for_Older_Adult_Patients.pdf