Effect of Collaborative Care on the Improvement of Daily Living Abilities and Reduction of Aspiration Pneumonia in Patients with Swallowing Disorders Following Cerebral Ischemic Stroke.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of collaborative care in patients with dysphagia after cerebral infarction (CIS) and its preventive impact on aspiration pneumonia (AP), providing valuable clinical insights.

METHODS: A total of 78 patients with swallowing disorders following CIS, treated at West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from March 2021 to March 2023, were included in this study cohort. The control group comprised 35 patients receiving conventional care, while the research group comprised 43 patients receiving collaborative care. Swallowing function pre- and post-care was compared between the groups, and AP incidence was statistically analyzed. The patients' daily living abilities and emotional well-being were assessed using the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Scale, Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS). Additionally, the care satisfaction level among patients was investigated.

RESULTS: After care, the research group demonstrated significantly improved swallowing function and a notable reduction in AP incidence compared to the control group (P < .05). ADL scores increased in both groups, with higher scores observed in the research group (P < .05). Moreover, SAS and SDS scores decreased, with lower scores in the research group (P < .05). Additionally, care satisfaction was higher in the research group (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: Collaborative care proves effective in enhancing the recovery of patients with swallowing disorders following CIS and reducing the occurrence of AP. Its clinical use is recommended.