702 – The Overlooked Impact of SLPs in Elder Care and Litigation – Elizabeth McKinney

In this episode of the Legal Nurse Podcast, we delve into the specialized world of speech and language pathology with expert witness Elizabeth McKinney, who brings 17 years of experience in geriatric care and a wealth of advanced certifications in her field. Elizabeth McKinney sheds light on the extensive educational requirements and ongoing certifications necessary for speech-language pathologists, highlighting their critical role not just in communication but also in swallowing safety, cognitive assessments, and patient advocacy across all care settings.

Listeners will gain an insider’s perspective on how speech-language pathologists contribute to both pediatric and adult care, often working behind the scenes with vulnerable populations in skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, schools, and even home health. The episode also tackles the legal and ethical responsibilities of these professionals, especially in complex cases involving aspiration pneumonia, diet management, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Through compelling case examples including wrongful death due to preventable choking, Elizabeth McKinney illustrates the real-world stakes of clinical decisions and the vital interplay between nurses, dietitians, and speech pathologists.

With her unique view as an expert witness, Elizabeth McKinney discusses both the high standards set by the profession’s code of ethics and the impact of proper documentation, team education, and timely intervention on patient outcomes and litigation. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, legal professional, or simply curious about the hidden dimensions of post-acute care, this episode will deepen your understanding of how speech and language pathology can shape and safeguard patient lives.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode on The Overlooked Impact of SLPs in Elder Care and Litigation

Here are 5 discussion questions answered in the podcast:

What are the implications when recommended swallowing safety precautions are not followed in skilled nursing facilities?

How can impulsive or improper diet recommendations by speech-language pathologists contribute to adverse patient outcomes and potential litigation?

What mechanisms exist for nurses, dietitians, and speech-language pathologists to communicate and collaborate regarding dietary changes and patient safety?

How does the ASHA Code of Ethics guide the practice and decision-making of speech-language pathologists, especially when unethical practices are observed?

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