[Dysphagia] vital stim & mentallt retarded population

[EThompson at mountnittany.org (Thompson, Elana)]

Michele,
While I have no particularly strong beliefs about whether or not VitalStim is a good choice in dysphagia management (I have been certified in its use since 2004), I can say that VitalStim is not supposed to be considered a passive treatment approach.  According to my training, in order for it to be used ethically and efficaciously, it should be used in conjunction with therapy techniques and/or compensatory strategy education.  If a patient cannot participate with that then it is questionable whether VitalStim should be used.
Best of luck ...
  

-----Original Message-----
From: dysphagia-bounces at dysphagia.com
[mailto:dysphagia-bounces at dysphagia.com]On Behalf Of
Michele.Graziadei at dhs.state.nj.us
Sent: Friday, September 07, 2007 11:37 AM
To: dysphagia at dysphagia.com
Subject: [Dysphagia] vital stim & mentallt retarded population


 Does anyone have any information regarding Vital Stimulation Therapy with the severe and profound developmentally disabled
population (MR)?  I presently am employed at a residental facility for the MR population -mainly severe & profound whom are not able to follow directions. Thanks!!!!!



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