Noninstrumental Dysphagia Assessment and Screening: A Proposed Checklist

Abstract

Purpose: In the field of dysphagia research, there is a need to establish a framework for the critical appraisal of methodological reporting. A working group was formed to develop a tool to aid in such critical appraisal across various domains of dysphagia research (called the FRONTIERS [Framework for RigOr aNd Transparency In REseaRch on Swallowing] Framework). The goal of the current paper is to present and describe one domain of this tool: noninstrumental assessment and screening tools. Method: Methods describing the development of the FRONTIERS Framework and the associated tool are detailed in the prologue of this series. Results: A set of questions specific to the critical appraisal of transparency and rigor of research involving noninstrumental screening and assessment tools was developed. This included 13 “yes/no” questions, each of which is presented with a rationale for its inclusion and an example of its implementation. Conclusions: The use of this framework will serve researchers and those appraising the quality of research that uses noninstrumental dysphagia assessment and screening tools. More broadly, the FRONTIERS Framework will facilitate improved rigor and transparency across dysphagia research. Special considerations and future goals are discussed.