City Research Online

Abstract

BACKGROUND: People with dysphagia who require mealtime assistance are at greater risk of emergency hospitalisation and other negative outcomes. However, the abilities and experiences of family-carers providing mealtime assistance to children are unknown. This multi-method PhD investigation will create a toolkit to support family-carers and Speech & Language Therapists (SLT) when developing mealtime recommendations, including the change(s) targeted (texture, pacing) and adherence approaches.

METHODS: The ‘develop intervention’ stage of the MRC framework for complex intervention development guided 4 studies:
Best research evidence: systematic literature review (Study A)
Clinical expertise: survey of UK SLT clinical practice (Study B)
Patient and/or carer values: qualitative family mealtime exploration (Study C)
These findings will be synthesised and a prototype toolkit produced via co-creation (Study D)

RESULTS: Study A: Prospero registration [CRD42021257596], searches and screening completed. Included studies are highly heterogeneous in both participant type (child, carer or dyad), targeted changes, location and outcomes.
Study B: Recruitment completed (May-July 2021). 102 participants progressed to final question. SLTs used multiple mealtime recommendation targets (n=27) e.g., positioning, utensils. Many frequently (n=22, >60% reporting sometimes-often). Qualitative analysis revealed two main SLT working styles, ‘Consultative collaboration’ or ‘Informative prescription’.
Study C: NHS ethics approval anticipated with planned protocol registration and data collection (October-December 2023).
Study D: Planned (2024-25).

DISCUSSION: Findings so far highlight the complexity of creating mealtime recommendations due to multiple potential targets and a limited research evidence base. Future and current findings will guide the toolkit creation to support this complex practice area.

Publication Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine R Medicine > RJ Pediatrics
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Language & Communication Science
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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