SLPA Scope of Practice 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: An SLPA is asked to independently modify a client's treatment goals because progress has stalled. What should the SLPA do?
- Modify the goals using clinical judgment
- Consult the supervising SLP before making any changes (Correct answer)
- Ask the client's family to decide on new goals
- Discontinue therapy until the SLP is available
Correct answer: Consult the supervising SLP before making any changes
Modifying treatment goals is outside the SLPA's scope; the supervising SLP must make all clinical decisions.
Question 2: Which task is within the SLPA's scope of practice during a therapy session?
- Diagnosing a new communication disorder
- Implementing activities designed by the supervising SLP (Correct answer)
- Selecting appropriate standardized assessments
- Writing the client's individualized education plan (IEP)
Correct answer: Implementing activities designed by the supervising SLP
SLPAs may implement therapy activities planned and designed by the supervising SLP.
Question 3: Under ASHA guidelines, what is the recommended minimum direct supervision percentage for an SLPA working with clients?
- 5% of weekly client contact hours
- 10% of weekly client contact hours (Correct answer)
- 25% of weekly client contact hours
- 50% of weekly client contact hours
Correct answer: 10% of weekly client contact hours
ASHA recommends that SLPAs receive at least 10% direct supervision of their weekly client contact hours.
Question 4: A parent requests that the SLPA provide a formal written diagnostic report for their child. How should the SLPA respond?
- Write the report based on session observations
- Refer the parent to the supervising SLP who is responsible for diagnostic reports (Correct answer)
- Ask a colleague SLPA to co-sign a report
- Decline without offering any alternative
Correct answer: Refer the parent to the supervising SLP who is responsible for diagnostic reports
Diagnostic report writing is exclusively the SLP's responsibility; the SLPA should direct the parent to the supervising SLP.
Question 5: Which of the following best describes the SLPA's role in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)?
- Independently select and configure AAC devices
- Implement AAC strategies as directed by the supervising SLP (Correct answer)
- Train caregivers on AAC without SLP involvement
- Evaluate candidacy for AAC independently
Correct answer: Implement AAC strategies as directed by the supervising SLP
SLPAs may implement AAC strategies but must do so under the plan and direction of the supervising SLP.
Question 6: An SLPA notices a client displaying signs of a possible swallowing disorder not previously identified. What is the correct action?
- Begin modified texture diet recommendations immediately
- Document the observation and promptly report it to the supervising SLP (Correct answer)
- Conduct a bedside swallowing evaluation
- Refer the client to a physician without consulting the SLP
Correct answer: Document the observation and promptly report it to the supervising SLP
The SLPA should document and report clinical observations to the supervising SLP, who will determine next steps.
Question 7: Which statement correctly describes supervision requirements when an SLPA is new to the job?
- Supervision requirements are the same regardless of experience level
- New SLPAs require more intensive supervision that may be reduced as competency is demonstrated (Correct answer)
- New SLPAs can work independently after one week of orientation
- State licensure boards do not regulate supervision levels
Correct answer: New SLPAs require more intensive supervision that may be reduced as competency is demonstrated
Supervision should be more intensive for new or less experienced SLPAs and may be adjusted as competency is established.
SLPA Scope of Practice 2
An SLPA is asked to independently modify a client's treatment goals because progress has stalled.
What should the SLPA do?