Implementing IDDSI in an Acute Care Setting: Experiences From the University Hospital Graz

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Clinical Nutrition
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) provides a global standard for dysphagia diet textures and liquids.
• Effective implementation is crucial for improving patient safety and care quality in acute settings.
• University Hospital Graz, a 1554-bed facility, undertook a comprehensive IDDSI implementation project.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the successful implementation of the IDDSI framework in a large acute care hospital.
• To standardize dysphagia diet practices across five patient-focused areas.
• To enhance staff knowledge and multiprofessional communication regarding dysphagia care.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the IDDSI Monitor, Aware, Prepare, Adopt (MAPA) model and implementation guide.
• Formed an interdisciplinary working group (dietitians, SLPs, chefs) for audits and alignment.
• Conducted staff training and pre/post-implementation surveys to assess awareness and terminology use.

Main Results:

• Successful integration of IDDSI into clinical workflows, menu planning, and electronic health records.
• Significant increase in staff IDDSI awareness (42.1% to 76.7%) and standardized terminology use.
• Challenges included recipe adaptation and integration with the 'Cook and Chill' system; dual leadership and staff engagement were key.

Conclusions:

• IDDSI implementation in acute care is feasible and beneficial.
• The initiative led to increased multiprofessional knowledge of the IDDSI framework.
• Enhanced collaboration among therapeutic, nursing, and kitchen teams improved dysphagia care standards.