School-based speech-language pathologists' perspectives on dysphagia management in the schools.
OBJECTIVE
Although provision of dysphagia services is within the scope of practice of speech-language pathologists (SLPs), little is known about the perspectives of school-based SLPs in relation to these services. The purpose of this study was to examine SLPs' perspectives related to school-based management of students with dysphagia.


METHODS
Focus group interviews were conducted with 33 SLPs who were employed by a large school district in the Midwest before development of district-supported policies and protocols related to dysphagia management. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative analysis methods.


RESULTS
A variety of common perspectives emerged from the data, including a primary perceived difficulty in adapting practice in dysphagia from medical to educational service delivery models and settings. Additionally, 3 thematic categories of concerns emerged that were related to child characteristics, training, and support.


CONCLUSIONS
Information gained in this investigation may be used to develop effective service delivery models, policies, and protocols, as well as to identify necessary supports related to the management of students with dysphagia in school settings.
Bailey
Rita L
RL
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790-4720, USA. rlbaile@ilstu.edu
Stoner
Julia B
JB
Angell
Maureen E
ME
Fetzer
Alycia
A
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D019959:Feeding and Eating Disorders of Childhood / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D008297:Male; D008611:Mentors; D008875:Middle Aged; D010348:Patient Care Team; D011361:Professional Competence; D012572:School Health Services; D013066:Speech-Language Pathology / Q000193:education