Introduction
Early post-stroke aphasia intervention is an important independent predictor of improved communication outcomes later in recovery. Existing early post-stroke aphasia intervention research has predominantly examined the impact of treatment dosage, content and intensity on communication outcomes. Limited research on speech pathologists' perceptions of early intensive aphasia intervention is available. This study aimed to investigate speech pathologists' (SP) perspectives of implementing early intensive aphasia therapy.
Methods
This study analysed 21 semi-structured SP interviews in a sub-study of the Very Early Rehabilitation for SpEech (VERSE) clinical trial. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. A descriptive qualitative approach was used to form themes which included documenting insights and reflections, identifying recurring phrase patterns, sequences, and crucial elements; analysing commonalities and discrepancies; forming and verifying smaller groupings or generalizations; and validating these findings against existing knowledge to further refine and develop insights.
Results
SPs perceived early intensive aphasia intervention as beneficial for individuals with aphasia in improving communication outcomes and quality of life. Themes included maintaining therapeutic relationships, augmenting patient progress and improving SP satisfaction with intervention. Barriers to the effective implementation of early intensive intervention included patient fatigue, prioritising aphasia intervention/management within the multidisciplinary team, and resource constraints.
Conclusion: This study addressed evidence gaps by examining SPs’ perspectives on early intensive aphasia therapy, revealing challenges and favourable aspects. While the SPs generally experienced positive outcomes, the study highlighted implementation difficulties, emphasizing the need to address local barriers and facilitators for future interventions.
Relevance to clinical practice or patient experience
The findings offer valuable insights for planning and executing early intensive aphasia therapy in clinical settings, given best-practice recommendations indicate impairment-based aphasia therapy should start within the first month post-stroke and be delivered two to three times per week.