Improving Self-Efficacy of Speech-Language Pathologists Who Provide Feeding Interventions for Infants With Congenital Heart Disease Through Targeted Education

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to enhance self-efficacy of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) who provide feeding interventions for infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). We determined whether a targeted educational intervention could improve the self-efficacy of SLPs treating feeding/swallowing disorders in infants with CHD. Method: Thirty-three SLPs participated in a 5-hr continuing education course focused on feeding infants with CHD. Data regarding participant experience and practice setting were collected via survey, and the physiotherapist self-efficacy (PSE) questionnaire was used and modified to assess self-efficacy. Results: Thirty pre- and postsurveys were completed, revealing diverse clinical experiences and practice settings among the participants. The postsurvey results using the PSE showed notable increases in participants' confidence and competence for treating feeding and swallowing disorders in infants with CHD. The p values were noted to be < .001 on all 13 components of the PSE. Conclusion: Our findings highlight a gap in education and confidence for SLPs treating infants with CHD and support the benefit of a dedicated postgraduate continuing education course in improving the self-efficacy of SLPs treating this population.