Abstract
ABSTRACT: Early detection and treatment of dysphagia in hospitalized patients is necessary to prevent life-threatening complications, such as aspiration pneumonia and malnutrition. The registered nurse (RN) is the healthcare professional who is at the frontline of emergent care and consequently the first to observe the signs and symptoms of dysphagia. There has been an increase in demand on healthcare providers to demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness on patient outcomes. A dysphagia assessment can be performed by an RN in the emergency room and in other patient care areas to prevent serious complications of aspiration. This study was the first to examine the RN's intention and ability to perform dysphagia assessments.