Dysphagia terminology for texture modified fluid and food: a national survey of speech-language pathologists’ practice

Abstract

Texture modified consistencies (TMC) is a common compensatory strategy in dysphagia management. Lack of consensus regarding TMC terminology places a person at risk of poor oral intake, malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration. Purpose To investigate: (a) Swedish Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) dysphagia management with TMC, including terminology, inter-professional collaboration, and knowledge of standard TMC guides; and (b) the current TMC terminology/guides used within university hospitals, in Sweden. Method Part One surveyed SLPs from 19/21 regions. Recruitment occurred via regional SLP/department managers, the national SLP association and email lists. Non-parametric statistics were employed. Part Two explored TMC guides within the seven university hospitals. Result The initial survey identified 78 Swedish TMC terms. Overlap of both TMC terms and descriptions occurred. Different terms to describe same/similar textures were used by 70% of the SLPs. Knowledge of established guides was high (>90%), though TMC was often (60%) based on locally developed documents. Collaboration with other professions was reported by 97% of SLPs, however almost half perceived collaboration to be inadequate, citing difficulties with transfer of TMC recommendations. Variance in TMC terms/guides within/across the university hospitals occurred. Conclusion Variable TMC terminology is used in Sweden, impacting optimal dysphagia management. Future research should focus upon implementation of standardised TMC terminology.