A nurse in a long-term care facility is managing the care of a client who has difficulty swallowing and occasional choking during meals. Which of the following members of the interprofessional care team should the nurse initiate a referral to?

A speech-language pathologist (SLP) specializes in the evaluation and treatment of dysphagia (swallowing disorders). They perform swallowing assessments, recommend diet modifications (texture, consistency), and teach compensatory swallowing techniques to prevent aspiration. A social worker addresses psychosocial needs and resources. A case manager coordinates care and discharge planning. A respiratory therapist manages airway and breathing issues but does not treat dysphagia.