Introduction:
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common complication affecting 27 to 64% of stroke patients. The early detection of dysphagia is essential to limit the risk of secondary complications (e.g., aspiration) developing. While dysphagia screening methods like videofluoroscopy and fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing are the gold standard, their use is limited by cost, staffing and testing availability outside working hours. Consequently, registered nurses (RNs) often perform bedside dysphagia screening. Despite RN-led dysphagia screening being a common element of contemporary stroke care, little is known about how to best educate RNs for this task. A scoping review was therefore conducted to collate what education practices have been reported in the literature.

Methods:
The scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O’Malley’s (2005) framework, JBI methodology, and PRISMA-ScR guidelines to systematically explore the research question: How are RNs educated on dysphagia screening tools in acute stroke units? Three databases (CINAHL, Medline (via Ovid), and Scopus) were searched without date limitations, using key terms related to stroke, dysphagia, and nursing education. Extracted data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2022) thematic analysis framework.

Results:
Twelve studies published between 2001 and 2024 were included in the review. Four themes were identified: comprehensive and structured training; diversity of training methods; ongoing education and competency assessments; and standardised protocols and tools. The review findings suggest continuous education with training programs that combine theoretical concepts with practical skills are beneficial in improving RNs’ competence and confidence with dysphagia screening.

Conclusion:
The review highlighted the importance of multi-faceted, ongoing education for stroke nurses in dysphagia screening. While diverse training approaches showed positive outcomes, the review identified a lack of standardisation persists in dysphagia screening education. Future research should explore stroke nurses’ experiences with training programs so that their insights can guide the development of future initiatives.