Analysis of the concept of safe meal assistance by nurses among patients with dysphagia

Abstract

This study aimed to clarify the concept of safe meal assistance by nurses for patients with dysphagia. Databases were searched electronically for articles published from their year of inception to 2022. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) written in English or Japanese in a peer-reviewed journal and (b) described safe meal assistance by nurses among patients with dysphagia. Our search was further strengthened by including landmark scholarly publications. The concept analysis was based on Rodgers’ method and 15 articles were included in the review. The attributes were assessment, comprehensive judgment of meal-related risks, consideration of the meal assistance method, adjustment of the meal environment, support for the preparation of patients’ minds and bodies for eating meals, and support for patients while avoiding the risk of aspiration and choking. Four items were selected as antecedents, such as nurses’ status and multi-professional collaboration. There were six items selected for consequences, such as prevention of aspiration pneumonia, maintenance and improvement of nutritional status for sustaining life, and maintenance of function of mind and body. Clarifying the concept of safe meal assistance for patients with dysphagia may enable nurses to promote safe meal assistance.