Section 246-828-112 - Speech-language pathology assistants-Minimum standards of practice(1) "Supervising speech-language pathologist" means a licensed speech-language pathologist or speech-language pathologist certified as an educational staff associate by the superintendent of public instruction.(2) A speech-language pathology assistant may only perform procedures or tasks delegated by the speech-language pathologist and must maintain patient/client/student confidentiality as directed by the speech-language pathologist.(3) Speech-language pathology assistants may not represent themselves as speech-language pathologists.(4) The speech-language pathology assistant must be supervised by the speech-language pathologist while performing procedures or tasks listed in subsections (5) and (6) of this section.(5) The following procedures or tasks may only be performed under direct supervision and at the speech-language pathologist's discretion: (a)Participating during parent conferences, case conferences, or interdisciplinary team meetings with the speech-language pathologist present.(b) Assisting the speech-language pathologist during evaluations and assessments of patients/clients/students.(6) The following procedures or tasks may be performed under direct or indirect supervision at the discretion of the supervising speech-language pathologist: (a)Perform speech-language and hearing screenings for the speech-language pathologist. The speech-language pathology assistant may not interpret the results.(b) Document patient/client/student performance (such as data, charts, graphs, progress notes, and treatment notes) and report this information to the speech-language pathologist.(c) Implement treatment plans and protocols including individualized education programs (IEP) or individualized family service plans (IFSP) developed by the speech-language pathologist. These plans, programs, and protocols may include speech, language, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), assistive technology (AT), and oral-motor therapies.(d) Perform clerical duties such as preparing materials and scheduling activities as directed by the speech-language pathologist.(e) Check and maintain equipment as directed by the speech-language pathologist.(f)Sign treatment notes, progress notes, and other paperwork as directed by the speech-language pathologist.(7) The following procedures and tasks are excluded from the speech-language pathology assistant scope of practice:(a) Tasks that require diagnosis, evaluation, or clinical interpretation.(b)Screening and diagnosis of feeding and swallowing disorders.(c)Development or modification of treatment plans.(d)Implementation of therapy outside of the treatment plan.(e)Selection of caseload.(f)Discharge or exit patients/clients/students.(g) Referral of patients/clients/students for additional services.Wash. Admin. Code § 246-828-112
Amended by WSR 15-14-092, Filed 6/29/2015, effective 7/1/2015Statutory Authority: RCW 18.35.161, 43.70.250. 10-15-093, § 246-828-112, filed 7/20/10, effective 7/26/10.