The speech-language pathologist's role in multidisciplinary burn care: An international perspective

Anna F. Rumbach, Nicola A. Clayton, Michael J. Muller, Peter K.M. Maitz

To explore international practices of speech-language pathology (SLP) within burn care in order to provide direction for education, training and clinical practice of the burns multidisciplinary team (MDT). A 17-item online survey was designed by two SLPs experienced in burn care with a range of dichotomous, multiple choice and open-ended response questions investigating the availability and scope of practice for SLPs associated with burn units. The survey was distributed via professional burn association gatekeepers. All quantitative data gathered were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. A total of 240 health professionals, from 6 different continents (37 countries) participated within the study. All continents reported access to SLP services. Referral criteria for SLP were largely uniform across continents. The most dominant area of SLP practice was assessment and management of dysphagia, which was conducted in concert with other members of the MDT. SLP has an international presence within burn care that is currently still emerging.