The Pediatric Screening–Priority Evaluation Dysphagia: Validation of a new tool for screening swallowing disorders in infants and children

Aim: To assess the psychometric properties of the Pediatric Screening-Priority Evaluation Dysphagia (PS-PED), a novel 14-item, non-invasive tool for identifying dysphagia risk in infants and children. Method: Internal consistency and interrater reliability were evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Concurrent validity was assessed by correlating PS-PED scores with the Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS). Analysis of variance examined score differences across neurological and neuromuscular conditions, congenital and musculoskeletal abnormalities, cardiovascular disease, and genetic syndromes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves determined cut-offs for optimal sensitivity and specificity. Results: The PS-PED was administered to 117 children (59 males and 58 females; mean age 6 years 8 months, SD 4 years 4 months), showing good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.716) and strong interrater reliability (ICC = 1). A positive correlation (0.765) was found with the PAS, with significant score differences among diagnostic groups. ROC analysis established cut-offs for two dysphagia risk levels. Interpretation: The PS-PED is a reliable, valid screening tool for dysphagia, facilitating early identification in infants and children across various medical conditions.