Exploring dysphagia workload, aetiologies and preferred intervention strategies: Pakistani speech-language pathologists’ perspective

Abstract

Background: Clinicians may encounter cases with swallowing difficulties and aspiration risks. The intervention depends upon multiple factors. A professional decides on an appropriate intervention protocol. Therefore, exploring clinicians’ workload and intervention strategies is essential.
Objectives: To explore the speech-language pathologists’ (SLPs) perspective regarding workload, aetiologies, and management, including their most preferred intervention approaches to manage clients with dysphagia.
Method: This qualitative exploratory research was conducted at Riphah International University from January 2023 to December 2023, employing a sample of 22 SLPs aged 25–55 years, either gender, with at least a master’s qualification and 2 years of experience. The study utilised detailed interviews aided with an interview guide, duly validated and piloted beforehand and followed by thematic analysis.
Results: The study revealed a heavy workload being catered by SLPs, with six themes: (1) acquired aetiological conditions with stroke, traumatic brain injury being commonest subthemes, (2) current trend of intervention with a subtheme need for electrical stimulation, (3) traditional strategies, (4) multidisciplinary team referrals, (5) need of awareness campaigns and (6) limitation of access to services.
Conclusion: The study divulged that the services for individuals with dysphagia are concentrated primarily in major urban centres. The service delivery models are not standardised, rely on traditional support, and need to be made robust and evidence-based. There is a dearth of technological reliance; thus, standardised tools and equipment are strongly mandated. There is a higher workload of SLPs; a multidisciplinary team approach and awareness campaigns are essential.
Contribution: This study has contributed to the growing body of literature in terms of SLPs’ perspective regarding workload, aetiologies, and management, including the most preferred intervention approaches to manage clients with dysphagia. This study is of significance as it will help with prevention, management, and information dissemination to the subject population, as well as for research purposes.