Evaluating the Feasibility and Validity of Using Trained Allied Health Assistants to Assist in Mealtime Monitoring of Dysphagic Patients

AbstractGrowing patient numbers, within a context of finite resources, has placed increased demands on dysphagia services in acute settings. Delegating some aspects of dysphagia management to other trained professional groups, such as allied health assistants (AHA), may help speech-language pathology (SLP) service efficiencies. The primary aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and initial validity of using trained AHAs to complete structured mealtime observations of patients. The secondary aims were to explore costs and user perceptions. The study used a mixed methods design. All AHAs who participated worked in the adult acute inpatient setting and were agreeable to participate; they successfully completed training and were deemed competent to use the observation tool. To explor...

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