Aims and objectives: To determine presence of clinical complications related to dysphagia and to explore their operational outcomes.Background: Dysphagia is a common complication of stroke. The management of

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions of allied health professionals (AHPs) to implementation of an integrated electronic medical record (EMR) across both regional and metropolitan settings. MethodsThe study was conducted as a cross-sectional electronic survey. AHPs working at three hospital sites within Queensland Health were sent an electronic survey link. Participation was voluntary and recruitment via a snowball sampling technique was encouraged. Responses were analysed descriptively. ResultsIn all, 104 responders completed the survey. Responders were distributed across three sites within the selected health service, with most (75%; n=78) being at the largest site. Physiotherapy accounted for the largest number of responders (22%). Most responders were female (87%; n=90) and between 20 and 40 years of age (68%; n=71). On a scale from 0 (being anxious) to 100 (being excited), at the time EMR implementation was announced, there was a trend towards excitement (mean score 59). The most commonly reported factor hindering EMR implementation was the opportunity to practice with EMR (34%), whereas clinical ‘change champions’ were reported as the most common facilitators (61%). Overall, 60% of responders were very satisfied or satisfied with the EMR, but limited effects on efficiency and patient care were reported. ConclusionsThe results suggest an overall positive response to EMR implementation. Minimal staff reported effects such as stress or anxiety in the workplace related to EMR implementation, and a perception of ‘comfort’ was cited once EMR was part of usual practice. However, responders did not report a significant effect on speed, efficiency or quality of patient care following EMR implementation. What is known about the topic?A growing body of literature exists regarding the perceptions of staff (particularly medical officers) in moving towards EMRs, but there is limited evidence regarding the perceptions of AHPs, and the barriers and facilitators to this change. What does this paper add?This paper presents a novel perspective regarding the perceptions of AHPs regarding the implementation of an EMR and provides a perspective of the barriers and facilitators that supported a smooth transition at three sites. What are the implications for practitioners?Despite being a large-scale service change, the introduction of an EMR did not significantly increase AHPs’ subjective feelings of anxiety. Services considering EMR implementation should invest in the provision of timely information, ‘at-elbow’ support and opportunities to practice the new system.

No abstract

No abstract

Objectives Decision‐making around dysphagia management is becoming increasingly challenging due to the complexity of contexts associated with an ageing population. The current study explores current decision‐making practices used by speech language therapists (SLTs) surrounding contexts related to palliative care, dementia, neuro‐degenerative diseases, guardianship/family decisions, and other issues relevant to ongoing care of individuals with dysphagia. Methods An exploratory prospective electronic survey of SLTs was conducted. A total of 202 respondents were eligible for inclusion. Results Only 55% of respondents reported their workplace had a standard approach to documentation. Only 19% reported their service had a defined policy to support decision‐making, with only 28% reporting the existence of patient information brochures. Conclusion Limited formal guidance or practice standards exist in the setting of complex dysphagia management, which limits the consistency of practice and clinical efficiency. This insight into current practices and perspectives supports the development of clinical guidelines.

The outcomes suggest that a clinical protocol for dysphagia management in thrombolysed patients has the potential to improve service outcomes, reduce complications from dysphagia, have financial benefits for the hospital and increase service compliance. Furthermore, the results lend support for speech pathology services to manage dysphagia on weekends.

No abstract

No abstract