Conclusion
Although this study only reflects practice within one inpatient hospital caseload, results begin to systematically explore a popular dysphagia therapy approach in which research is sorely lacking. The study highlights that oral trials are widely used in this inpatient caseload, with trials being offered primarily, although not exclusively, to patients with a new neurological diagnosis. Individual patient factors, ward environment and experience of treating SLT are all likely to contribute to decision-making around offering oral trials.
There was no standardised approach identified regarding delivery of oral trials; decision-making regarding quantity or consistency of diet and fluids is unclear. Further research is required to explore the use of oral trials across other inpatient and community settings and to evaluate their effectiveness.