The feasibility and test–retest reliability of the Dutch Swal-Qol adapted interview version for dysphagic patients with communicative and/or cognitive problems

Abstract

PURPOSE: The adaptation of the Dutch Swal-Qol questionnaire to an interview format suitable for dysphagic patients with communicative and/or cognitive problems and evaluation of the feasibility and test-retest reliability. METHODS: An observational study with two measurements within a 2-week time period in a sample of 57 stroke patients with dysphagia in a nursing home environment. The interview version of the Swal-Qol was evaluated in the total group and in subgroups of patients with and without communicative and/or cognitive problems. RESULTS: The constructed interview version was considered feasible from an expert's and patient's point of view. The overall score and seven subscales of the Swal-Qol showed an excellent test-retest reliability (k > 0.75), and two subscales were considered good (k > 0.60). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that using a structured, and at the same time flexible, interview format tailored to the individual needs of stroke patients enhances the feasibility and does not compromise the test-retest reliability.