Predischarge Dysphagia Measured Using the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) and Its Association With 90-Day Aspiration Pneumonia and Hospital Readmission.

Abstract

Background Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder that may give rise to severe complications when not managed at the initial stages. Discharged patients with unresolved swallowing problems may become vulnerable to aspiration pneumonia and unexpected hospital readmissions. The purpose of this study was to establish the connection between predischarge dysphagia, measured with the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10), and the incidence of aspiration pneumonia and 90-day hospital readmission. Methods The study was a prospective observational study conducted from January to June 2025 in hospitals in Lahore. The 511 clinically stable participants discharged were evaluated regarding dysphagia, demographic, and clinical information using the EAT-10. The incidence of aspiration pneumonia and readmission was established using follow-up at 90 days. Correlation tests, including the Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis H test, the chi-square test, and logistic regression, were used to analyze the data. Results The significant scores on the EAT-10 were related to aspiration pneumonia (r = 0.245, p < 0.001) and 90-day readmission (r = 0.310, p < 0.001). Patients who scored high on the EAT-10 were more likely to develop pneumonia (p < 0.001) and readmission (p < 0.001). Other predictors included older age, comorbidities, a history of pneumonia, and an extended hospital stay. Logistic regression supported EAT-10 as a significant predictor of both pneumonia (OR = 1.03, p = 0.012) and readmission (OR = 1.01, p = 0.040). Conclusions Predischarge dysphagia, as measured by EAT-10, is strongly related to post-discharge complications such as aspiration pneumonia and readmission. Regular screening during discharge can help identify high-risk patients and enable timely interventions, thereby enhancing patient safety and outcomes.