An SLPA can NOT perform oral motor exercises for a patient with which condition?

An SLPA cannot perform oral motor exercises for a patient with dysphagia because this condition involves difficulty in swallowing, which often requires specialized assessment and intervention from licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Dysphagia management typically includes not only exercises but also safety considerations and modifications to diet and communication strategies, all of which need to be overseen by an SLP due to the associated risks of aspiration and other complications.

In contrast, articulation disorders, fluency disorders, and voice disorders can be managed with techniques and exercises that an SLPA is trained to administer. SLPAs can support speech production practices, help clients with fluency techniques, and assist in voicing strategies under the supervision of an SLP. Therefore, oral motor exercises in the context of these conditions fall within the scope of practice for an SLPA, while dysphagia necessitates a higher level of expertise to ensure patient safety.