The who, why, when, where, what and how of using outcome measures in dysarthria: A qualitative exploration of speech-language pathologists’ perspectives

Abstract

Purpose To date, little research has explored clinical assessment practices in the management of dysarthria. The aim of the present study was to explore the practices and perspectives of Australian speech-language pathologists (SLPs) regarding outcome measures (OMs) in the management of dysarthria, including barriers and enablers to their use. Method A focus group methodology was used to explore the practices and perspectives of 16 SLPs working with adults with dysarthria. The 4 focus groups were transcribed and analysed using qualitative content analysis with barriers and enablers to the use of OMs analysed according to the Theoretical Domains Framework. Result Seven categories were identified regarding SLPs’ practices and perspectives on the use of OMs in dysarthria management. These were related to the importance of assessments, OMs currently and not currently being utilised, ideal assessment features, perspectives on the development of a core set of OMs in dysarthria management, and perceived enablers and barriers to the use of OMs. Each category had a number of constituent subcategories. Overarching the categories was the theme: the who, why, when, where, what and how of dysarthria outcome measurement. Conclusion The use of OMs in dysarthria is influenced by a range of factors including: the clinical setting, patient factors, and where and when the patient is in their recovery journey. Variability in the assessments used suggests that formal measures may not meet current clinical needs.