Citation

Guthrie S, Stansfield J. J. Appl. Res. Intellect. Disabil. 2015; 30(1): 47-60.

Affiliation

Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/jar.12218

PMID

26427764

Abstract

PURPOSE: To explore caregiver perceptions of the socio-environmental issues around evening meal ('teatime') which influence choking. Mealtime difficulties for people with intellectual disabilities and/or mental illness may be underdiagnosed. Difficulties affect quality of life with social aspects impacting on service-users and caregivers. Reporting of choking incidents has increased locally following widespread training. Analysis of reports showed most incidents were occurring around evening meal.

METHODOLOGY: A qualitative study of caregivers witnessing a choking incident was undertaken. Semi-structured interviews explored perceptions of the causes. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

FINDINGS: Thematic analysis elicited individual service user characteristics, and social and contextual factors implicated in choking. The findings will facilitate risk assessment for service-users and inform mealtime practice. Staff familiarity is a key factor. Further research involving service-users is indicated to complement these findings. This study widens the focus of recent studies which have considered physical more than socio-environmental aspects of mealtime difficulties.

Language: en