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.