Work Reality of the Speech Therapist in the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Introduction: To document the current employment of Speech Therapists as members of the interdisciplinary team in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) in different clinics and hospitals in the city of Cúcuta, Norte de Santander. Methods: Field research, of a critical-reflective nature, qualitative and cross-sectional, with a sample of 6 institutions; the semi-structured interview was used as a data collection tool. Results: In none of the institutions is the speech therapist currently a member of the interdisciplinary team, since they are hired according to the circumstances that arise. In addition, it was observed that the work of this professional is replaced by nursing assistants and physical therapists, performing procedures that put the lives of patients at risk. Analysis: Speech therapy services within the ICUs are contracted through outsourcing, due to the normative composition of the Colombian Health System. Conclusions: The lack of Speech Therapy specialists or those with experience in the management of critically ill patients means that they are not members of the work team. All Speech Therapy professionals in training and/or working must make efforts to support the discipline, including greater recognition of the work carried out and also appreciation of their work.