Effect of swallowing maneuvers on neurological deglutition among extubated patients

Post-extubation dysphagia is a common complication among neurological patients, increasing the risk of aspiration, malnutrition, and prolonged hospitalization. Swallowing maneuvers are simple, non-invasive techniques to improve deglutition. Effectiveness of swallowing maneuvers on neurological deglutition among extubated patients in critical care units was evaluated. Quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test control group design was adopted. Sixty extubated patients with neurological impairment were purposively selected and allocated to experimental (n = 30) and control group (n = 30). The experimental group received structured swallowing maneuvers twice daily for 15–20 minutes over 7 days. Control group received routine care. Neurological deglutition was assessed pre- and post-intervention using a structured swallowing assessment scale. Results revealed that post-test deglutition scores were significantly higher in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Swallowing maneuvers significantly improve neurological deglutition in extubated patients. Structured interventions can prevent complications, promote oral intake, and enhance recovery.