For aspiration pneumonia, which referrals are indicated?

• A. Pulmonologist and speech therapist
• B. Dermatologist and endocrinologist
• C. Neurosurgeon and nephrologist
• D. Cardiologist and gastroenterologist

Answer: (A)

When aspiration pneumonia is suspected, the goal is to treat the lung infection while preventing further aspiration by addressing swallowing safety. A pulmonologist is essential to manage the pneumonia itself—ordering imaging, selecting antibiotics, optimizing oxygenation, and guiding airway clearance. A speech-language pathologist is also crucial because dysphagia is a major risk factor for aspiration; they assess swallowing safety, may perform FEES or VFSS as needed, and provide therapy, diet modifications, and compensatory strategies to reduce aspiration risk.

Other specialties aren’t typically involved in the direct management of aspiration pneumonia unless there are specific unrelated conditions. So the combination of pulmonology and speech-language pathology best meets the needs in this scenario.