The aim of this e-learning course is to build your understanding of good practice in assessment and intervention when supporting a person with disability at mealtimes. It illustrates the person-centred nature of mealtimes and outlines how to promote active participation. The course focuses upon a team consultation, with ethical decision making at its core. It also highlights the framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (World Health Organisation) and how we can incorporate this into our mealtime management practices.

When you complete the course, you will be prompted to complete a post-course assessment. There is also an appraisal accompanying this e-learning course that is located in the Assessment Module Resources. The appraisal is designed to support speech pathologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists to translate their knowledge regarding mealtime management into their everyday practice.

NB: For a full list of resources see the “Mealtime Management Course Resources” section on the Resource Shelf.

Module 1 – Getting Started

Provides an overview of what mealtimes involve and why they are so important.

Running Time: 4-5 min

Module 2 – The Supporting Framework

Understand relevant policies, procedures and best practice principles that guide mealtime management.

Running Time: 6 mins

Module 3 – Working Together

Learn how to work as part of a team, including the person with mealtime issues, families, carers and other professionals.

Running Time: 6-7 mins

Module 4 – Getting To Know The Individual

Understand how person centred planning is central to mealtime management.

Running Time: 15-18 mins

Module 5 – What Are We Looking For?

Identify signs of difficulties at mealtimes and the main steps of a mealtime assessment.

Running Time: 12-15 mins

Module 6 – Nutrition and enteral feeding

Explore the importance of nutrition and learn when enteral nutrition might be considered.

Running Time: 2-3 mins

Module 7 – Positioning, sensory processing and medication

Discover the critical areas of positioning, sensory processing and medication.

Running Time: 10-12 mins

Module 8 – Oral Care

Understand the importance of oral care for people with disability.

Running Time: 18-20 mins

Module 9 – Putting It All Together

Learn about creating person centred and accessible mealtime management plans.

Running Time: 4-5 mins

Module 10 – Fork In The Road

Review ethical decision making in relation to mealtime management, including informed consent and duty of care.

Running Time: 16-18 mins

Module 11 – Learning From Others

Reflect on the social, emotional, practical implications of mealtimes.

Running Time: 7-9 mins

Module 12 – Case Study: Micky

Complete a mealtime management case study.

Running Time: 14-15 mins

Module 13 - Assessment

Complete this assessment module to receive a certificate of completion. You are required to score above 90%. Good luck!

Running Time: 5 mins

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