Praxis SLP Licensure Exam

What approach is suitable for improving a severely dysarthric patient’s functional communication through topic supplementation?

1. Training the patient to utilize an AAC device by modeling and explaining the process

2. Training the patient's spouse to expand upon their topic of conversation

3. Providing the patient with a list of letters to utilize in conversation

4. Providing the patient with a list of pictures to utilize in conversation

The correct answer is: Providing the patient with a list of pictures to utilize in conversation

The approach of providing the patient with a list of pictures to utilize in conversation is particularly effective for enhancing functional communication in severely dysarthric patients. This method capitalizes on the visual nature of pictures, which can serve as powerful tools for communication. Given that dysarthria often impacts the clarity of speech, pictures can help bridge the gap by enabling the patient to convey messages or indicate topics of discussion non-verbally. Using pictures allows the patient to point to or show images that represent their thoughts, feelings, or ideas, facilitating interaction with communication partners. This method is especially helpful in situations where verbal communication is severely limited, as it provides a more accessible means for the patient to express themselves and participate actively in conversations. In contrast, other options may not be as effective. For instance, training a spouse to expand upon the patient’s topic of conversation may enhance engagement but does not directly empower the patient to initiate or control the dialogue. Utilizing a list of letters also presents challenges, as it may not be practical for real-time communication, requiring more complex cognitive processing. Additionally, an AAC device can be beneficial but may overwhelm a severely dysarthric individual without prior experience or training in using technology, making pictures a more immediate and accessible solution.