ERIC Number: EJ1195588
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1368-2822
EISSN: N/A
Processes and Challenges in Clinical Decision-Making for Children with Speech-Sound Disorders
International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, v53 n6 p1124-1138 Nov-Dec 2018
Background: Children with speech-sound disorders (SSD) constitute a significant proportion of speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) caseloads. Previous research has investigated the clinical practice of SLPs intervening with children with SSD; however, little is known about the clinical decision-making underpinning their practice. Aims: The clinical decision-making of SLPs working with children with SSD was explored to understand how their clinical decisions were influenced by: (1) beliefs about what works in therapy; (2) prior clinical experience; and (3) client and service-related variables. Methods & Procedures: Semi-structured, individual, in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 SLPs. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify and explore key ideas and themes. Outcomes & Results: Four themes emerged: (1) clinical decision-making procedures were highly individualized; (2) parental involvement was viewed as central to the success and progression of therapy; (3) therapy procedures were influenced by practice-setting constraints; and (4) engaging in evidence-based practice within clinical settings was perceived as challenging. Conclusions & Implications: In clinical settings, a range of factors influence decision-making and therapy provided by SLPs to children with SSD. These SLPs had a high regard for clients' values and preferences. Prior clinical experiences also shaped clinical practice. Clinical decision-making was influenced by practice-setting constraints. SLPs are under pressure in their workplaces and are struggling to manage the competing demands on their time. Large clinical caseloads, heavy workloads, current service-delivery models and changing family structures are all impacting on the provision of therapy to children with SSD and therapy outcomes. As a profession, there is a need to consider these barriers and identify ways to overcome them in order to assist SLPs to routinely adopt the highest standards of clinical practice for children with SSD.
Descriptors: Speech Impairments, Acoustics, Speech Language Pathology, Speech Therapy, Allied Health Personnel, Decision Making, Clinical Experience, Parent Participation, Evidence Based Practice, Time Management, Delivery Systems, Family Structure, Barriers, Standards
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A