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Speech Pathology

Read the following information.

Free OET Writing Sample Test with Answer Subtest Speech Pathology #6

Task: Adult Post-Stroke Dysphagia

Case Notes:

  • Patient: Mr. George Hamilton, 67 yrs

  • Referral: Neurology ward ? Speech Pathology Department

  • Admission Reason: Left-sided ischemic stroke, 10 days ago

  • Presenting Issue:

    • Coughing/choking when drinking thin liquids

    • Prolonged chewing of solids

    • Reduced voice clarity after meals

  • Medical Hx: Hypertension, hyperlipidemia

  • Medications: Aspirin, Atorvastatin, Amlodipine

  • Examination: Facial droop on the left side, weak gag reflex, reduced tongue strength

  • Neurologist Impression: Post-stroke dysphagia, risk of aspiration

  • Current Diet: Pureed food, thickened fluids provided by nursing staff

  • Request: Swallowing assessment + rehabilitation plan

Dear Speech Pathologist,

I am referring Mr. George Hamilton, a 67-year-old man recovering from a left-sided ischemic stroke, for swallowing evaluation and management.

Mr. Hamilton has been in our neurology ward for the past ten days. Since the stroke, he has developed significant swallowing difficulties, especially with thin liquids, which cause coughing and choking. He also experiences prolonged mastication of solids and reduced vocal clarity post-meals, suggesting possible aspiration.

On clinical examination, he presented with left facial weakness, diminished tongue strength, and a reduced gag reflex. Currently, nursing staff are maintaining him on pureed meals and thickened fluids.

Given his high risk of aspiration, I would appreciate your assessment of his swallowing function and recommendations regarding safe diet textures and rehabilitative exercises.

Yours faithfully,
Neurologist

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