IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative)
Improving safety of patients with dysphagia
The IDDSI framework is culturally sensitive, measurable, and applicable to individuals of all age groups in all care settings. It consists of 8 levels where drinks are measured ( 0-4 ) and foods measured from 3-7.
This is endorsed by NHS England, The British Dietetic Association (BDA) and Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). This will be implemented across RWT and the wider healthcare economy by April 2019.
Please ensure your Link nurses identified from thickening training/ members of your team are aware.
Changes in Descriptions of Food And Drink For Patients With Difficulty Swallowing
From 3rd September 2018, changes have been implemented in the descriptions of food and drink for patients with swallowing difficulties, which are based on IDDSI – International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative. The aim is to make sure internationally that the same food and drink descriptions are being used.
| Current Description |
New, "IDDSI" Description |
|
Normal Fluids
|
Level 0 / Thin
|
|
Level 1 thickened drink
Add 200mls fluid to 1 scoop of resource thicken up clear
|
Stage 1 thickened drink
Add 200mls fluid to 2 scoops of resource thicken up clear |
Level 2 thickened drink
Add 200mls fluid to 2 scoops of resource thicken up clear |
Stage 2 thickened drink
Add 200mls fluid to 4 scoops of resource thicken up clear |
Level 3 thickened drink
Add 200mls fluid to 4 scoops of resource thicken up clear |
| Thick pureed diet – Category C |
Level 4 - Pureed diet |
| Pre-mashed / mashed further – Category D |
Level 5 - Minced and moist |
| Soft, fork mashable diet – Category E |
Level 6 - Soft and bite sized |
