The SWAL-QOL outcomes tool for oropharyngeal dysphagia in adults: I. Conceptual foundation and item development

Abstract

In the past two decades, noteworthy advances have been made in measuring the physiologic outcomes of dysphagia, including measurement of duration of structure and bolus movements, stasis, and penetration-aspiration. However, there is a paucity of data on health outcomes from the patients' perspective, such as quality of life and patient satisfaction. A patient-based, dysphagia-specific outcomes tool is needed to enhance information on treatment variations and treatment effectiveness. We present the conceptual foundation and item generation process for the SWAL-QOL, a quality of life and quality of care outcomes tool under development for dysphagia researchers and clinicians.