Dysphagia terminology for texture modified fluid and food: a national survey of speech-language pathologists’ practice

Texture modified consistencies (TMC) is a common compensatory strategy in dysphagia management. Lack of consensus regarding TMC terminology places a person at risk of poor oral intake, malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration. To investigate: (a) Swedish Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) dysphagia management with TMC, including terminology, inter-professional collaboration, and knowledge of standard TMC guides; and (b) the current TMC terminology/guides used within university hospitals, in Sweden. Part One surveyed SLPs from 19/21 regions. Recruitment occurred via regional SLP/department managers, the national SLP association and email lists. Non-parametric statistics were employed. Part Two explored TMC guides within the seven university hospitals. The initial survey identified 78 Swedish TMC terms. Overlap of both TMC <i>terms</i> and <i>descriptions</i> occurred. Different terms to describe same/similar textures were used by 70% of the SLPs. Knowledge of established guides was high (&gt;90%), though TMC was often (60%) based on locally developed documents. Collaboration with other professions was reported by 97% of SLPs, however almost half perceived collaboration to be inadequate, citing difficulties with transfer of TMC recommendations. Variance in TMC terms/guides within/across the university hospitals occurred. Variable TMC terminology is used in Sweden, impacting optimal dysphagia management. Future research should focus upon implementation of standardised TMC terminology.