PERFORMANCE OF RESIDENT SPEECH THERAPISTS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Objective: To describe the experiences of resident speech therapists in the context of the pandemic of COVID-19 . Methods: This is a descriptive, exploratory research of qualitative approach, of the type of experience report, carried out at the General Hospital of Fortaleza, in Ceará, during the months of May 2020 to March 2021. Results: The performance of speech therapists living in the pandemic context of Covid-19 was based on evaluations and therapies regarding dysphagia, dysarthria, dysphonia, apraxia and aphasia. However, the priority of speech therapy evaluation was around the evaluation of swallowing that underwent adaptations so that aerosols would not be generated in the environment, reducing the risks of contamination. Final considerations: The experience report of speech therapy visits performed during the pandemic period of Covid-19 contributed to demonstrate the reality of the experience of the hospital environment, as well as its importance for adaptations in communication and swallowing of patients affected by neurological diseases.

Keywords: Speech Therapy; Hospital residency; COVID-19.