How I review the literature to change practice (3) – Matching practice to theory
Author: Hales, P.
Magazine issue: Summer 05
Page numbers: 27-28
Date: 30 May 2005
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Some speech and language therapists continue to assess the gag reflex, although basic dysphagia courses teach that it is not related to swallowing. Some doctors continue to refer to speech and language therapy based on an absent gag reflex. Pippa Hales reviews the literature to try to sort out the fact from the fiction, and finds marked inconsistencies across every area of the topic reflecting the quality of the research undertaken. She concludes that until this is done there is insufficient evidence to support the inclusion of the gag reflex in dysphagia assessments.
