Which statements are true regarding the treatment of swallowing disorders?

Which statements are true regarding the treatment of swallowing disorders?

• A. Thickened liquids cause dehydration
• B. Chin-down posture eliminates aspiration
• C. Supraglottic swallow may cause cardiac arrhythmia
• D. Shaker exercises increase the upper esophageal sphincter opening

Answer: (C)

The statement about supraglottic swallow potentially causing cardiac arrhythmia is true because the maneuver requires specific physical responses that can affect heart rhythms, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. During the supraglottic swallow technique, patients hold their breath while swallowing to protect the airway, which can lead to changes in heart rate or rhythm. This is particularly crucial to consider when treating populations at risk for heart complications or with swallowing difficulties. It’s important to note that many of the other techniques mentioned in the options also relate to swallowing disorders, but they don't encapsulate the same level of concern regarding heart rhythm disturbances. For example, the relationship between thickened liquids and dehydration often involves managing hydration balance; however, thickened liquids can help minimize aspiration risk rather than inherently cause dehydration if monitored properly. Similarly, while the chin-down posture is an effective strategy to reduce aspiration risk, it does not guarantee complete elimination of the risk, as there are various other factors at play. Lastly, the Shaker exercises are designed to improve the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter, aiding in swallowing function rather than being implicated in potential irregularities of cardiac function.

The statement about supraglottic swallow potentially causing cardiac arrhythmia is true because the maneuver requires specific physical responses that can affect heart rhythms, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. During the supraglottic swallow technique, patients hold their breath while swallowing to protect the airway, which can lead to changes in heart rate or rhythm. This is particularly crucial to consider when treating populations at risk for heart complications or with swallowing difficulties.

It’s important to note that many of the other techniques mentioned in the options also relate to swallowing disorders, but they don't encapsulate the same level of concern regarding heart rhythm disturbances. For example, the relationship between thickened liquids and dehydration often involves managing hydration balance; however, thickened liquids can help minimize aspiration risk rather than inherently cause dehydration if monitored properly. Similarly, while the chin-down posture is an effective strategy to reduce aspiration risk, it does not guarantee complete elimination of the risk, as there are various other factors at play. Lastly, the Shaker exercises are designed to improve the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter, aiding in swallowing function rather than being implicated in potential irregularities of cardiac function.