Italian Journal of Prevention, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Medicine

The purpose of this statement is to inform the role of speech and language therapist (SLT) in intensive care units in Italy. There is growing evidence to support the early intervention by SLTs in assessing and managing swallowing and communications impairments with positive outcomes for rehabilitation, reduction of hospital stay, nutrition and quality of life. This report is divided in two main sub-sections. The first one defines the role of SLTs  in dysphagia managements for people with tracheostomy and post-extubation dysphagia. The procedures for swallowing assessment are described as well as the important contribution of SLTs in tracheostomy weaning process. The second sub-sections describes the value of SLTs in helping patient’s communication with nurses and doctors.  As in the last few months, there was an increased demand of SLTs to treat covid-19 patients in critical care settings; this report give also a contribution for the SLTs management with this population. In conclusion, this statement wants to guide SLTs colleges in the management of patients in intensive care unit.