Paediatricians' knowledge of paediatric feeding disorders in Jordan.

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate paediatricians' knowledge about paediatric feeding disorders and the role of speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists and whether their work setting or years of experience influenced their knowledge.

Method: A cross-sectional survey design was used. The total score was out of 62 which included a subscale score of knowledge about paediatric feeding disorders out of 50 and a subscale score of knowledge about the role of rehabilitation team out of 12. Descriptive statistics were conducted and two-way ANOVA investigated the effect of two independent variables on the scores, that is, work setting and years of experience.

Result: A total of 191 paediatricians (138 male and 53 female) participated. The mean total score of participants was M = 29.90 years (SD =12.20), range (12-60). Paediatric feeding disorders were not evaluated nor managed by 26.7% and 23% of participants, respectively. Evaluation procedures for paediatric feeding disorders included bedside evaluation (75.9%), ultrasound (71.2%), videofluoroscopy (52.9%), endoscopy, and/or flexible/fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (50.8%). The most common treatment was drug treatment (64.92%). Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists were considered to be members of the multidisciplinary team by 63.87% and 28.80% of participants, respectively. Referrals to speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists were made by 44.5% and 36.13% of participants, respectively. Significant differences for the independent variables of work setting (p < 0.01) and years of experience (p < 0.01) were found, indicating greater knowledge for paediatricians working in private settings and for those with less years' experience.

Conclusion: There is a need for professional educational programs for paediatricians in Jordan, especially for those working in public settings. Such programmes need to focus on the nature of paediatric feeding disorders and the current evidence for management, as well as the roles and contributions of the multidisciplinary rehabilitation team.