EBP Compendium: Summary of Clinical Practice Guideline
Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists; Department of Health (UK); National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)
RCSLT Clinical Guidelines: 5.6 Clinical Voice Disorders
Taylor-Goh, S., ed.
(2005).
RCSLT Clinical Guidelines. Bicester, Speechmark Publishing Ltd.
AGREE Rating: Highly Recommended
Description:
This evidence-based guideline provides recommendations for the assessment and management of voice disorders in children and adults. This guideline is targeted to speech-language pathologists.
Recommendations:
- Voice/Resonance Screening/Assessment
- Individuals should have an examination by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Surgeon before receiving speech/language intervention. Ideally, an individual should attempt to receive treatment from a Joint ENT/Speech and Language Therapy Voice Clinic.
- A perceptual voice and respiratory assessment should be conducted in order to establish an accurate voice profile.
- High quality audio recording is necessary.
- It is recommended that measurements of aerodynamics, pitch, intensity, resonance, vibratory cycle, and/or aspects of vocal quality be made.
- Perceptions should be collected of the individual or other friends/relatives regarding the impact and symptoms of the voice disorder.
- The SLP may conduct palpation of the extrinsic laryngeal musculature.
- Differential diagnosis should be considered.
- Voice/Resonance Treatment
- Management of voice disorders should include client education including explanation of the impact of hydration, environment, voice use, and lifestyle.
- Direct treatment may be necessary in order to alter vocal fold adduction or respiratory patterns, modify pitch, reduce supraglottic activity, alter resonance, or adjust articulatory tension.
- Indirect treatment techniques, such as relaxation strategies may be necessary if pscyhological or social factors contribute to the voice disorder.
Keywords: Voice Disorders
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Added to Compendium: November 2010