Publications by authors named "Audrey Lankford"
Article Synopsis
- The study aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of children with a history of opioid exposure, based on the perceptions of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) treating them.
- Three focus groups involving 20 SLPs from West Virginia were conducted, resulting in thematic qualitative analysis of their experiences and observations.
- Key findings highlighted developmental delays in speech, language, and executive function, as well as factors like greater severity of needs, inconsistent performance, and environmental influences that affect these children, emphasizing the need for a multi-faceted approach to their assessment and support.
Purpose: This research intended to identify current practices being implemented with children who have a history or suspected history of opioid exposure, as well as challenges faced by speech-language pathologists in the schools.
Method: Focus group data from three groups totaling 20 speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working in schools in West Virginia, also used in a previous study, were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis to better understand SLP service provision to children with a history or suspected history of opioid exposure.
Results: Results revealed two primary themes, reported as (a) service delivery in action (current practice trends and challenges) and (b) affective/cognitive manifestations (uncertainty about their role and various emotions expressed) of the SLPs who participated in the focus groups.