As a speech and language pathologist working in a nursing home setting, Audrey observes and treats frequent swallowing difficulties due to signs/symptoms of aspiration. Evaluation often includes trials of swallowing skills using compensatory strategies for maximum airway protection. One of the most common strategies is the use of a “chin neutral or chin tuck” position for increased epiglottis closure and airway protection. The use of a regular cup causes the individual to tip his head back when drinking compromising this protection. The therapist will use a cut-out cup during trials which allows the person to drink without having to tilt the head back. The difficulty comes when these cups are not readily available when and where the evaluation is taking place.

Audrey’s “Dual Cup” is an adaptation of the cut-out cup. It is designed to be disposable and made of a disposable material such as foam, paper or plastic. The illustration shows one side of the cup is perforated. When the perforated section of the cup is removed, it becomes an instant cut-out cup for safe swallowing. This is especially useful for any patient whose swallowing has been weakened. Nurses as well as therapist could use it with medicines typically given with a cup of water then simply tossed away as usual.

Considering the prevalence of aspiration, especially among the frail elderly population, the dual cup will soon become a welcomed adaptation for safe swallowing in the skilled nursing setting, sub acute rehabilitation hospitals and of course acute care hospitals everywhere.

http://www.TheDualCup.com
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