Examining the awareness of healthcare professionals working in the rehabilitation hospital about dysphagia

Aim: The aim of this research is to examine the level of awareness of medical personnel working in a rehabilitation hospital who are more likely to observe signs and symptoms of swallowing disorders about the knowledge of dysphagia and the role of language and speech therapists in the management of dysphagia. Material and Method: Descriptive research method was used for this research. 42 physiotherapists, 30 nurses and 30 doctors working in a rehabilitation hospital participated in the study. The 'Dysphagia Awareness Questionnaire of Medical Personnel Working in Rehabilitation Hospital' created by the researchers was used. The data were obtained by performing chi-square analysis using SPSS 25 program. Results: In the study, it was seen that the most commonly used dysphagia assessment methods were clinical evidence for dysphagia and bedside swallowing assessment. The role of the language and speech therapist in the rehabilitation of dysphagia in informing the patient, caregiver and health worker about safe oral intake techniques has been the response with the highest consistency. Referral rates to language and speech therapists for the rehabilitation of dysphagia were found to low. There has been a lack of dysphagia education of physiotherapists and nurses compared to doctors. Conclusion: It has been observed that the knowledge and awareness of medical personnel about dysphagia management and the role of language and speech therapist are insufficient.This study highlights the importance of decontamination awareness and knowledge of medical personnel, multidisciplinary teamwork and interdisciplinary cooperation in dysphagia management for effective management of dysphagia in rehabilitation hospital. Key Words: Dysphagia, Rehabilitation Hospital, Swallowing, Awareness, Health Personnel