Management of Dysphagia in Nursing Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Strategies and Experiences

The global 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has had devastating effects not only on healthcare systems worldwide but also on different aspects of the care provided to nursing home residents. Dysphagia management is a crucial component of the care provided to many nursing home residents. This article presents the dysphagia management strategies applied in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic and the related experiences. A two-tier protection system was implemented wherein residents were categorised according to their contact and hospitalisation histories. The provided swallowing management and personal protective equipment level differed between the two tiers. The article also discusses the referral and prioritisation of clinical services for residents requiring swallowing management, as well as the adaptations of swallowing assessment and management during the pandemic. The possible effects of COVID-19 on mealtime arrangements in nursing homes, the implications of the pandemic on the use of personal protective equipment and the use of telepractice in nursing homes were also discussed. This article has summarised the actions taken in this regard and may serve as a reference to clinicians who are responsible for swallowing assessments and dysphagia management in nursing homes.