55 Dysphagia identification practices in residential long-term care settings in the Republic of Ireland: a cross-sectional electronic survey

Abstract Background Dysphagia is common in older adults with neurological and/or neurodegenerative conditions requiring early identification to avoid serious complications, including malnutrition, dehydration and aspiration pneumonia. The aim of this study was to describe dysphagia identification practices in Residential Long-Term Care Settings (RLTCS) in the Republic of Ireland. Methods A cross sectional electronic survey was designed using Qualtrics XM Platform that included 40 questions divided in 5 sections. The survey was circulated via email to RLTCS to be completed by either a clinical nurse or nurse manager in each facility. Descriptive data analysis was conducted on survey responses using RStudio. Results There were 45 surveys completed out of N = 429 electronically circulated (10% response rate). All RLTCS that completed the survey reported to routinely implement dysphagia identification practices. Observation of signs and symptoms of dysphagia at mealtimes (100%), review of clinical records to identify dysphagia risk factors and comorbidities (93%) and resident self-report of swallowing difficulties (91%) were the most common dysphagia identification practices. Poor oral motor function (89%) and history of aspiration pneumonia (87%) were reported as the main dysphagia risk factors. A swallow screening test was less commonly used to identify dysphagia (42%). Coughing or choking on food or fluids, inability to swallow medication, oral or pharyngeal residue, delayed or absent initiation of swallow, leaking of food or fluids and difficulty with coordination of breathing and swallowing were identified by all respondents as key criteria for risk of dysphagia. Almost all participants reported that residents at risk of dysphagia were routinely referred to speech and language therapy services for further assessment. Conclusion A range of practices were identified in RLTCS that participated in the survey. Further research approaches are required to provide a more in-depth perspective of dysphagia identification practices and protocols used in RLTCS for timely and accurate identification of dysphagia to avoid associated complications.