Speech-Language Pathology and Respiratory Care Classes Hold Interprofessional Session

Recently, GMercyU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSSLP) students visited a Respiratory Care class for an interprofessional practice session.

Led by Respiratory Care Program Coordinator Randy Solly, MS, RRT, RPFT, AE-C, students learned about upper airway anatomy and physiology, and bronchoscopy — a procedure that allows healthcare professionals to examine the inside of the airways and lungs. Bronchoscopy indications, goals of the procedure, and tools used were covered during the class.

Students had the opportunity to "drive" the bronchoscope, visualize the upper airway, and explore the anatomy using adjuncts like endotracheal tubes (ETT) and tracheostomy tubes.

“As SLPs, we usually see the patient after the bronchoscopy, procedures, or surgeries. We work with patients who have trachs — or don't — on swallowing and voice, which requires significant coordination with respiration,” said Alison Boyle, MS, CCC-SLP, the MSSLP Director of Clinical Education. “Our students truly benefited from this collaborative, hands-on learning experience.”

In addition to a Q&A session, a great discussion on clinical cases was sparked between Respiratory Care and MSSLP students.

Next up for the MSSLP class: a visit to the cadaver lab at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), for an even more life-like experience.