Name of the Procedure:

Spoken Language Expression Functional Limitation, Discharge Status at Discharge from Therapy or to End Reporting (G9164)

Summary

This is an evaluation procedure used to assess a patient's ability to express themselves verbally at the time they are discharged from therapy or when reporting ends. It measures functional limitations in spoken language expression.

Purpose

The procedure is designed to identify and document any limitations in a patient's ability to express themselves through spoken language. The primary goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy and to inform future care plans.

Indications

• Patients with speech and language disorders
• Individuals recovering from stroke or traumatic brain injury
• Patients with neurodegenerative diseases affecting speech
• Those who have undergone surgery affecting vocal cords or speech mechanisms

Preparation

• No special preparation is typically required.
• Patients should continue their prescribed medications unless otherwise directed.
• Prior diagnostic tests, such as speech and language assessments, may be reviewed.

Procedure Description

1. The therapist conducts a final assessment session with the patient.
2. Various standardized tools and exercises may be used to evaluate spoken language expression.
   • Examples include naming tasks, conversational prompts, and narrative skills assessments.
3. The therapist documents the patient’s abilities and any limitations observed.
   • Notes are made regarding fluency, clarity, vocabulary, and overall communication effectiveness.
4. The results are recorded in the patient's medical record and used for discharge planning.

Duration

The assessment typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the patient's condition.

Setting

This procedure is usually conducted in settings such as:

• Outpatient therapy clinics
• Rehabilitation centers
• Hospitals with speech therapy services

Personnel

• Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
• Occasionally, other medical professionals may be involved if interdisciplinary input is needed.

Risks and Complications

• There are minimal risks involved as this is a non-invasive assessment.
• Potential for fatigue or frustration for the patient during the evaluation.

Benefits

• Helps in understanding the extent of improvement and any residual impairments.
• Informs discharge planning to ensure appropriate follow-up care.
• Guides recommendations for home exercises or further therapy, if needed.

Recovery

• No physical recovery period is required as it is a non-invasive procedure.
• Patients may receive advice on ongoing speech exercises or follow-up appointments.

Alternatives

• Ongoing speech therapy sessions could be considered as an alternative.
• Use of technological aids like speech-generating devices.
• Other forms of communication assessments, depending on the patient’s needs.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may experience:

• Varied levels of difficulty with tasks, depending on their condition.
• Emotional reactions ranging from frustration to satisfaction based on their performance.
• Supportive interactions with the therapist aimed at comfort and encouragement.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures

• No pain management is required, but emotional support is crucial to ensure patient comfort and cooperation.