Clinicians' perspectives and experiences on using consistent terminology in speech-language pathology: A qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Clinical Linguistics
• Healthcare Implementation Science

Background:

• Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) received training on consistent terminology for childhood communication disorders.
• Despite high intentions, actual use of these clinical labels in practice was limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore SLPs' perspectives on factors influencing the adoption of consistent terminology.
• To understand challenges and facilitators in communicating clinical labels to families and caregivers.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative online survey was administered to 97 SLPs.
• Data were collected after a three-month pilot implementation of recommended clinical labels.

Main Results:

• Supports for label use included enhanced communication, positive family experiences, and increased clinician confidence.
• Barriers comprised differing opinions, scope of practice issues, time constraints, and lack of clinician/family readiness.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians acknowledged benefits of consistent terminology but noted the need for systematic change.
• Effective implementation requires ongoing education, understanding family needs, and aligning with service structures and policies.