Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/11054/1960
Title: Understanding dysphagia screening, triage, and referral processes in the residential aged care setting.
Author: Cardinal, Lara
Pope, Rachel
Clapham, Renee
Pitman, Michelle
Issue Date: 2022
Conference Name: Speech Pathology Australia 2022 National Conference: Beyond Borders
Conference Date: May 22-25
Conference Place: Melbourne
Abstract: Background: Dysphagia in older persons can lead to preventable incidences of choking, aspiration pneumonia, and malnutrition. In Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs), it is therefore important that dysphagia identifications are accurate, timely, and contain sufficient information to be triaged. However, there is currently no published data on Australia’s current dysphagia management practices. Aim(s): The aims of this study are to compare best-practice recommendations on dysphagia screening, referral processes, education to staff, and triage timeframes in RACFs with current Australian practices. Method: A scoping literature review sourced evidence-based recommendations and guidelines. A 23-item survey was disseminated to Speech Pathologists via the SPA national e-newsletter and interest groups obtaining quantitative and qualitative information on current dysphagia practices in RACFs. Result(s): 32 publications were reviewed. Literature highlighted the importance of nursing-led dysphagia screening and early referrals. 65 survey responses were obtained across health sectors and levels of rurality. 80% (n=52) of sites serviced did not have formal dysphagia screening. Referrals that included clinically relevant information were rated as being received half of the time or less by 86% (n=56) respondents. Only 24% (n=16) of respondents had formal referral triage timeframes. Response timeframes for referrals describing aspiration or choking ranged from 1-14 days; 2-30 days without signs of aspiration or choking. 70% (n=46) of Speech Pathologists provided in-services to staff, mostly on an ad-hoc basis. Barriers to quality care were communication with facilities, staff education, and funding. Conclusion: Dysphagia screening, referral, and triage practices across Australian RACFs have marked variations. Emerging literature and survey responses suggest a need for increased screening guidelines, referral protocols, and regular nursing staff education.
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/11054/1960
Internal ID Number: 01914
Health Subject: DYSPHAGIA
RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE
LITERATURE REVIEW
Type: Conference
Presentation
Appears in Collections:Research Output

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