Family perceptions of facilitators and inhibitors of effective school-based dysphagia management

This qualitative study focused on the perceptions of family members of children with dysphagia by asking what the family-identified factors are that facilitate or inhibit effective school-based management of pediatric dysphagia.

Semistructured interviews of 7 family members of 6 children with dysphagia, ages 2 through 11 years, were conducted. Collective case study and cross-case analyses were conducted. The findings were confirmed through triangulation, respondent validation, and member checking.

Interviewees identified 5 facilitating factors that enhance school-based dysphagia programs: (a) setting, (b) therapist and/or program, (c) capitalizing on positive child characteristics, (d) home-school interactions, and (e) external supports. Four factors that inhibit effectiveness also emerged: (a) setting, (b) therapist and/or program, (c) limiting child characteristics, and (d) home-school interactions.

Practitioners may consider addressing the factors that were identified as facilitators of effective programs. More research is needed concerning (a) factors promoting effective parent-professional relationships, (b) methods for increasing professional preparation in pediatric dysphagia, and (c) the efficacy of school-based pediatric dysphagia management programs.