Promoting Independence

This chapter explores how clinicians may promote independence for patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with a specific focus on swallowing problems (dysphagia) as an issue of concern in recovery. Dysphagia can be challenging to manage in the ICU, with multiple causal factors and numerous clinical presentations which can be difficult to identify and eliminate in patients who are critically ill. Discussion will cover the diagnosis, management and rehabilitation options for people with swallowing problems, along with information about how the multi-disciplinary team may support this complex cohort of patients towards a successful recovery. COVID-19 and its impact on swallow and upper airway function is included in this chapter.