National eDelphi of SLTs identifying important techniques for communication partner training

Background and aims: Communication partner training (CPT) can improve communication outcomes for people with ABI and their family members, but the evidence base is limited with variability in the delivery of existing programmes. Almost 60% of speech and language therapists (SLTs) do not provide training consistent with best practice and 70% of participants. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and latent content analysis.Results: Between 89-107 SLTs participated across the three e-Delphi rounds, with 81(76%) completing all rounds. UK SLTs agreed 47 unique techniques for inclusion in future CPT programmes. Key techniques (>90% agreement) included choosing goals, practising skills, giving feedback, and problem solving. Qualitative data led to the inclusion of new techniques (e.g., involve others in goal and outcome monitoring) and provided insight into approaches used in practice (e.g., identity mapping, motivational interviewing).Conclusions and implications: This study is the first national e-Delphi of UK SLTs working in ABI. Behaviour change theory provided a useful framework for identifying the most important techniques to SLTs when delivering communication partner training and highlights the complex nature of training. Clinical consensus on CPT treatment techniques provides an opportunity to develop a programme theory to subsequently codesign and evaluate feasibility and efficacy in a future trial of CPT in ABI.