Some people with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) may be at risk for developing Aspiration Pneumonia. The Clinical Services Bureau manages the statewide Aspiration Risk Management Program to help reduce the likelihood of aspiration events, which can lead to pneumonia or even death. The Aspiration Risk Management program assists in the identification of risk factors, early recognition of aspiration symptoms and implementation of personalized interventions that can minimize the health risk of aspiration.
Standardized Screening
The New Mexico DDW program has long focused on Aspiration Risk Management. In 2010, we began using a standardized screening tool and Comprehensive Aspiration Risk Management Plan (CARMP).
Supports and Assessment for Feeding and Eating Clinics
Two separate clinics are sponsored by the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD) to provide Supports and Assessment for Feeding and Eating (SAFE).
Adults
The Adult SAFE Clinics help with this effort by providing multidisciplinary evaluation services to individuals at risk ages 18 and over.
Children
Children, ages 0-18 may be seen at the Pediatric SAFE clinic held at the UNM Center for Development and Disability. Please visit the Pediatric SAFE Clinic website to learn more.
Essential Information
The Clinical Services Bureau staff and consulting team provide a variety of supports including professional training, consultation and monitoring of persons at Aspiration Risk. See the listing below for links to current Aspiration Risk Management resources.
Tools
Comprehensive Aspiration Risk Management Plan
Meeting Guidelines
Training
SARL
- Refer to Therap to submit referral form for the Statewide Aspiration Risk List
Feeding Tube
- Aspiration Risk Management: Feeding Tube Frequently Asked Questions (Coming Soon)
Mealtime
