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Related Experiment Videos

Which commercial thickening agent do patients prefer?

Catherine Macqueen1, Shana Taubert, Deirdre Cotter

  • 1Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom. chris.macqueen@iclway.co.uk

Dysphagia
|December 24, 2002
PubMed
Summary

Speech and language therapists use thickening agents to reduce aspiration risk in patients. This study found significant differences in the palatability of these agents, suggesting improved compliance can enhance patient safety.

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Area of Science:

  • Speech-Language Pathology
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Swallowing Disorders

Background:

  • Patients at risk of aspiration require interventions to safely consume liquids.
  • Thickening agents are commonly prescribed by speech and language therapists to modify liquid viscosity.
  • Ensuring palatability is crucial for patient adherence to prescribed interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the palatability of five leading thickening agents used in the UK.
  • To assess patient and clinician perceptions of thickened beverage taste and texture.
  • To identify opportunities for improving patient compliance with dysphagia management.

Main Methods:

  • A blind-testing protocol involving patients, therapists, and students.
  • Evaluation of five commercial thickening agents across three non-alcoholic drink flavors.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Utilizing 5-point visual analog scales for perceptual rating of palatability.

    • Main Results:

    • Significant differences in palatability were observed among the five thickening agents.
    • Palatability ratings were independent of the specific drink flavor used.
    • No significant discrepancies were found between patient and therapist evaluations.

    Conclusions:

    • The choice of thickening agent significantly impacts palatability.
    • Selecting more palatable agents may improve patient adherence to speech and language therapy recommendations.
    • Enhanced compliance with thickening agents can potentially reduce aspiration risk in patients with dysphagia.