Data analysis
Data was entered into the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences
(SPSS) version 26. The sample was separated into groups based on the
treatment approach (full oral intake, oral trials or nil by mouth). Due
to the small sample size of the nil by mouth group (n=6), it was not
possible to draw statistical comparisons between this group. For the
purposes of exploring differences between the oral intake group and the
rest of the dysphagia caseload, all individuals not on oral trials were
therefore grouped for statistical comparisons. Clinical rationale was
used to select clinical predictors of treatment groups. Chi-squared test
analysis was used for frequency variables and two-tailed independent
samples t-tests for continuous variables. Hierarchical logistic
regression analysis was carried out to further investigate predictors of
belonging to the treatment group. A p < 0.05 cut-off was used
to define statistical significance.