Effectiveness of dysphagia training for adult learning disabilities support workers
British Journal of Learning Disabilities
Published online on April 07, 2013
Abstract
Accessible summary
It is important to notice problems with eating, drinking and swallowing in people with a learning disability.
People who have problems with eating, drinking and swallowing need support from staff to help them stay healthy.
This study shows that training gives staff a better understanding and more confidence when identifying problems and supporting a person with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties.
Summary
This study investigated the effectiveness of a 1‐day dysphagia training package delivered to support workers who work with adults with a learning disability. Thirty‐eight support staff took part in this study. Twenty‐five support staff received training, and 13 did not receive training and therefore acted as a control group. Three questionnaires were completed by each participant: immediately before, immediately after and a month after the training delivery. Questionnaires measured both confidence and knowledge. Findings indicated that there was a significant increase in knowledge and confidence scores in the trained group. These increases were largely maintained over a 1‐month period. There was no significant change in confidence or knowledge scores in the untrained group.