The Knowledge/Awareness of Dysphagia Among Professional Caregivers

Date of Submission

Spring 2024

Document Type

Closed Research Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Department

Speech-Language Pathology

First Advisor

Beatriz Barragan, PhD

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge/awareness of dysphagia among professional caregivers. A non-experimental study was carried out based on a self-administered and anonymous survey addressed to professional caregivers in skilled nursing facilities in Arizona, North Dakota, and Minnesota. A total of 29 professional caregivers participated in the study. Of these, 38% had 1-2 years of experience and 79% reported that high school was their highest level of education. The survey was divided into three sections: dysphagia characteristics, dysphagia management, and the IDDSI diet. The highest level of accuracy answered by the participants was under the dysphagia management category at an average of 67.75% with the lowest level of accuracy being under the IDDSI category at 44% accuracy. The participants also reported they did not feel well educated on the knowledge/awareness of dysphagia. In conclusion, the study shows low knowledge/awareness of the characteristics, management, and IDDSI diet for dysphagia among professional caregivers.

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