We are delighted to share some exciting news from the Speech Pathology Department at Hervey Bay Hospital. We have recently introduced a cutting-edge service known as Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing, or FEES for short.
FEES is a sophisticated swallowing assessment method led by our skilled speech pathologists. It involves the use of a flexible fibreoptic endoscope passed through the nose to obtain a detailed view of the hypopharynx. This allows us to assess vital aspects like pharyngolaryngeal secretions, anatomy, and physiology, while conducting swallowing trials with or without specific techniques and biofeedback.
One of the key advantages of FEES is its ability to cater to patients who, due to specific medical conditions or circumstances, may find it challenging to leave their wards or access traditional assessments promptly. With FEES, we can guide dysphagia management and recommendations swiftly, potentially expediting the re-establishment of oral intake.
Thanks to a generous grant from the Health Improvement Unit, we've acquired the state-of-the-art FEES Stack, a portable system that can be wheeled directly to the patient's bedside. This allows us to conduct the procedure right where our patients are, ensuring convenience and comfort.
Our Senior Speech Pathologist at Hervey Bay Hospital has undergone specialised training in nasendoscopy, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in patient care. With the invaluable support of our Intensivists, they've also undertaken site visits at multiple facilities in Metro North, honing their expertise in FEES assessment, interpretation, and analysis.
We are eager to bring this gold standard, instrumental swallowing assessment to our patients, revolutionising the way we approach dysphagia management. We believe in providing the best possible care for our community, and FEES is a significant step towards achieving that goal.