What is the most appropriate next action for a speech-language pathologist (SLP) if a client continues to exhibit nasal airflow only on specific sounds after surgery?

The most appropriate next action for a speech-language pathologist in this situation is to provide speech treatment to correct compensatory articulation errors. After surgery, it's not uncommon for some clients to demonstrate residual nasal airflow during specific speech sounds due to compensatory articulation patterns that may have developed prior to or after the surgical intervention.

By focusing on speech treatment, the SLP can address these articulation errors directly, offering targeted exercises and strategies to encourage correct sound production and reduce any maladaptive behaviors linked to nasal airflow. This approach can help the client improve their speech intelligibility and overall communication effectiveness.

In contrast, considerations like surgical feedback or prosthetic management are more appropriate if there are persistent physical issues or limitations that need addressing. Meanwhile, a nasoendoscopic study could be necessary if there are concerns about structural or functional issues impacting airflow, but it is not the immediate step for treating articulation errors. Thus, providing speech treatment is the most practical and effective choice to enhance the client's communicative abilities after the surgery.