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.