Genetic, neuromuscular, gastrointestinal, cardiorespiratory diseases and congenital abnormalities can cause dysphagia in children (1, 2). Various symptoms such as coughing during or after feeding, vomiting, recurrent lung infections, inability to gaining weight, difficulty in oromotor control, nasal regurgitation, and prolonged feeding time can be seen in children whose growth and development are affected due to dysphagia (3). The primary aim of dysphagia rehabilitation is; gaining a child's age-appropriate nutritional experience by ensuring safe swallowing; supporting growth and development (1). Rehabilitation consists of active or passive oral motor exercises, sensory training, thickened fluids, positioning and their combinations (4, 5). The caregiver is one of the most important partners of the rehabilitation program and should apply feding modifications and positioning for safe swallowing during each feeding. In addition, the exercise approaches recommended by the health personnel should be performed in order to improve the swallowing function at certain times of the day (5). According to a study in patients with neurologenic caregivers' failure to comply with dysphagia strategies; chest infections, aspiration pneumonia, prolongation of hospital stay, and adverse clinical outcomes resulting in death (6). Therefore, the role of caregivers is very important in the perisistence and success of rehabilitation is great. The level of knowledge and awareness of the caregiver directly affects the rehabilitation effectiveness. The knowledge and awareness of the caregiver directly affects the effectiveness of rehabilitation, as it is the caregiver who is most interested and spends time with the child. The caregiver, who has knowledge about dysphagia, symptoms and management, will give the necessary importance to rehabilitation and will be more aware of the child's existing condition. Thus, communication with health personnel will be strengthened, effectiveness of rehabilitation will increase. The aim of this study; to determine the level of knowledge of the caregiver about dysphagias and symptoms.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Determination of Caregiver Awareness:
Timeframe: 1 hour