PROTOCOL FOR AN ADULT FLUENCY EVALUATION

Pre-Evaluation Conference

  1. Make an appointment with supervisor to discuss the upcoming evaluation. Prior to the conference thoroughly familiarize yourself with (1) the client's file and all pertinent information, (2) chapter on assessment in Stuttering: An Integrated Approach (Peters and Guitar, 1991), and Evaluation of Fluency for Children and Adults: Protocol and Forms (Cross, 1996). Be prepared to present a 5-10 minute synopsis of the client and discuss the evaluation protocol.

Evaluation

  1. Greet Client in waiting area, introduce self and supervisor. Proceed to dx room.
  2. Inform client of sequence of events during the evaluation and approximately how long it will take (2.5-3 hours)
  3. Discuss and have client sign release forms.
  4. Conduct interview (see interview outline for suggested structure and sequence).
  5. Collect speech samples (inform client that video-taped samples of speech will be collected at this point. Video image should be of the upper trunk, face, and head.
    1. automatic speech tasks (count from 1-10 and 240-250, say days of the week
    2. and months of the year
    3. oral reading passage (approx. 2 minutes)
    4. spontaneous monologue (approx. 3 minutes) on topic (e.g. career goals, etc.)
    5. others as needed
  6. Administer any other tests, etc. deemed appropriate for the client.
  7. Conduct hearing screening (screen bilateral pure tones for 500, 1000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz at 25 dB; obtain bilateral tympanograms)
  8. Conduct oral-peripheral examination (including DDK rate).
  9. Excuse yourself and meet with supervisor to discuss observations and plan summary conference.Conduct summary conference and make recommendations.
  10. If no therapy is recommended, fill out billing paperwork with secretary. If therapy is recommended, obtain needed information (e.g. client schedule) and fill out billing paperwork.

Report
The first draft of the diagnostic report is due to the supervisor three (3) working days following the evaluation. All drafts must be typed (word processor preferred) and double spaced. Follow the report format and template on the computers in the student computer lab.

Summary Conference
After the final report draft is accepted by the supervisor, make an appointment for a final summary conference. Complete and submit a copy of the Student Diagnostic Evaluation. Be prepared to discuss your performance.

Douglas E. Cross, 1996