Journal of the Korean Dysphagia Society 2021;11(2):93-98

doi:10.34160/jkds.2021.11.2.002

Assessment and Management of Dysphagia during the COVID-19Pandemic

Sung-Hwa KO 1

Affiliations

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Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

Dysphagia is a complication seen in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Even in a COVID-19 pandemic situation, the management of dysphagia caused by other diseases as well as dysphagia-related COVID-19cannot be ignored. Because COVID-19 is transmitted via droplets, contact, and aerosol, there is fear of transmission to healthcare professionals. Due to this, it has not been possible to manage a COVID-19 dysphagia patient, in the same way as it was practiced prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, health professionals make a limited assessment of the patient with dysphagia. Healthcare professionals can use appropriate personal protective equipment to evaluate and treat a patient with COVID-19 associated dysphagia. Further, practice guidelines for dysphagia management should be established according to the presentation in different clinical situations and the status of the COVID-19 outbreak in various countries.