ERIC Number: EJ1028065
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1368-2822
EISSN: N/A
UK Survey of Clinical Consistency in Tracheostomy Management
McGowan, Susan L.; Ward, Elizabeth C.; Wall, Laurelie R.; Shellshear, Leanne R.; Spurgin, Ann-Louise
International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, v49 n1 p127-138 Jan-Feb 2014
Background: Many speech and language therapists (SLTs) work with patients who have a tracheostomy. There is limited information about their working practices and the extent to which recent publications and research have influenced the speech and language therapy management of the tracheostomized patient. Aims: This study reviews the current patterns of clinical practice for SLTs in the management of adult tracheostomized patients in the UK. Methods & Procedures: An online questionnaire was completed by 106 SLTs with prior experience in tracheostomy management. The information from this was explored to determine patterns of practice across various areas of speech and language therapy tracheostomy management including clinical roles and responsibilities, management of communication disorders, and assessment and management of dysphagia and decannulation. These clinical patterns were then examined with respect to the current literature, emerging patterns in evidence-based practice and national practice guidelines. Outcomes & Results: The results indicate a moderate to high level of clinical consistency in the majority of areas evaluated across the scope of tracheostomy management in speech and language therapy. Consistency in practice areas such as increased utilization of instrumental assessments and conservative use of the Modified Evans Blue Dye Test indicate clinical application in line with current research. Limited clinical consensus or inconsistencies in evidence-based services were identified in aspects of practice that are supported by conflicting or emerging research evidence. Such areas include involvement in cuff deflation regimes, adoption of specific decannulation procedures and participation in multidisciplinary team management. Conclusions & Implications: SLTs in the UK provide a moderate to high level of consistent practice in tracheostomy management. This study identifies areas of tracheostomy management that require further research in order to establish clinical practice guidelines and to address discrepancies between research evidence and clinical implementation.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Patients, Allied Health Personnel, Speech Language Pathology, Speech Therapy, Questionnaires, Online Surveys, Evidence, Communication Disorders, Eating Disorders, Motor Reactions, Medical Services, Interdisciplinary Approach
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A