ROLE OF SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST IN ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF DYSPHAGIAPERSPECTIVE FROM A DEVELOPING COUNTRY

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to find out the current level of awareness regarding the role of speech language pathologist in assessment and management of dysphagia among the medical professionals.

Materials and methods: A total of 106 professionals from the different part of Nepal completed a purpose built questionnaire regarding participant’s levels of awareness of dysphagia and speech language pathologist’s role in dysphagia management. For the professionals who were at the larger distant survey monkey was used to obtain response digitally.

Results: Responses were obtained from diverse professionals as nurses, doctors, specialist doctors, physiotherapist, dietician etc. The result indicated that only 10.58% of respondents followed protocol for dysphagia assessment and management. Most professionals (89.42%) lacked any form of training related to dysphagia, it was found that knowledge and awareness regarding management of dysphagia among various medical professional was poor; leading to lack of referral.

Conclusion: The present study highlights the need for awareness of different professionals in the management of dysphagia in collaboration with speech language pathologist. This gives the clear cut picture of the barriers which need to be addressed in future while dealing with multidisciplinary professionals involved in dysphagia.

Keywords: Dysphagia, Management, Speech Language Pathologist