Loading...
Drooling in children with neurodisability : A survey of Australian speech–language pathologists’ practice
McInerney, Michelle Reddihough, Dinah S. Carding, Paul N. Imms, Christine
McInerney, Michelle
Reddihough, Dinah S.
Carding, Paul N.
Imms, Christine
Abstract
Purpose: In the absence of evidence-based guidelines, this study sought to understand current speech-language pathologists’ (SLPs) practice when treating drooling in children with a neurodisability.
Method: Descriptive research using cross-sectional survey methodology. Online survey methods were used to obtain specific information on Australian SLPs’ self-reported assessment and treatment practices relative to working with children with neurodisability who drool. Questions focussed on level of expertise, treatment approaches and barriers to evidence-based practice (EBP) in this area. Participants were sourced through three targeted associations/organisations. Data were analysed using descriptive and non-parametric statistics.
Result: Participants were Australian SLPs who had recent experience working with children with neurodisability who drool (n = 68). They favoured informal rather than formal methods for assessment. Preferred treatment techniques included behavioural intervention methods (46–53%) and modifying positioning (43.3%). Client suitability dominated reasoning regarding treatment selection (60%) with 57% of SLPs reporting EBP barriers.
Conclusion: Drooling was perceived to be a complex practice area for which SLPs desire additional education. Despite availability, valid and reliable assessments of drooling were not commonly used. Clinicians have limited evidence to support their practice: further research is needed to establish evidence-based treatments for drooling.
Keywords
drooling, children, neurodisability, practice, Australian SLPs
Date
2020
Type
Journal article
Journal
International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology
Book
Volume
22
Issue
5
Page Range
601-609
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Allied Health
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled