Enhancing a speech pathologist’s knowledge in laryngectomy care through an innovative e-learning package

Laryngectomy management is a complex skill area for speech-language pathologists, recognised by Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) as an area of practice requiring additional training post graduate entry to the workforce, to ensure safe and effective care. There is a lack of evidenced based training frameworks to assist this specialised learning for speech pathologists. An e-learning package was developed to increase the knowledge and confidence of staff to manage specific, speech pathology related emergency situations in patients with a laryngectomy, due to limited hands-on training opportunities across a widespread health service. The clinical education project did not aim to replace robust skill development rather, to enhance clinical knowledge and Speech-Language Pathologists ability to assist and collaborate as part of the multidisciplinary team when admissions for patients with a laryngectomy occur. The e-learning package was allocated to twenty-two staff of varying clinical grade and expertise, across inpatient services. Staff were given a six-month period to complete the education package. The e-learning package consisted of a PowerPoint presentation, a post-package knowledge quiz, and evaluation survey. The post package quiz and evaluation survey data demonstrated increased confidence levels and perceived merit of the education tool with areas for further development.