Evaluating the Use of Oral Trials for Inpatient Dysphagia Management: An Initial Cross-Sectional Database Study

Purpose Oral trials, otherwise known as swallow trials or tasters, are widely used in dysphagia management. However, to date, no studies have investigated the effectiveness of oral trials or outlined how the approach is utilized in everyday practice. This article aims to start a dialogue regarding this much-used but little-evidenced dysphagia intervention by exploring three main aspects to (a) identify the patient demographics and environments in which oral trials are used in hospital, (b) explore clinical decision making around the approach, and (c) consider clinical implications around current findings and future areas for research. Method A cross-sectional examination of 118 patients on the dysphagia caseload of a United Kingdom-based inpatient speech and language therapy team was conducted. Statistical analysis explored demographic differences between oral trials groups and the rest of the dysphagia caseload. Results Twenty-three of 118 (19.5%) individuals on the caseload were or had been on oral trials during admission. Individuals in the oral trials group were significantly more likely to have a neurological diagnosis than the full oral intake group (78.3% vs. 30.5%, p < .001). There was a lack of uniformity in oral trials recommendations, and the rationale behind quantity and types of diet or fluids offered was unclear. Conclusions This study begins to evidence the use of a dysphagia therapy not previously explored within existing literature. It highlights the wide use of oral trials within the hospital trust observed. Based on current evidence, it would be difficult for clinicians to know how to implement oral trials as an intervention. Further research is required both to explore the effectiveness of this approach and also to develop a consensus within practice around how, why, and when oral trials are offered. This would ensure an equitable and effective service is offered and would ensure a high standard of evidence-based practice within dysphagia management.