Abstract: Objective To investigate the effect of intensive education among the families on nutritional status of the stroke patients with dysphagia. Methods 42 stroke patients with dysphagia diagnosed with Standard Swallowing Assessment were enrolled in the study. The patients and their families were randomly divided into intervention group (21 pairs) and control group (21 pairs). The families of the intervention group were given the intensive health education, 5~10 minutes each time, once a week for 1 month. The families of the control group were only given routine health education. The two groups of patients received conventional drug and swallowing function training. Hemoglobin (Hb), serum albumin (ALB), contralateral brachial triceps skin fold thickness (TSF) and arm muscle circumference (AMC) were measured 1 month latter. Results Hb, ALB, TSF and AMC in the intervention group were higher than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Intensive education among the families may improve the nutritional status of stroke patients with dysphagia.

Key words: stroke, dysphagia, intensive education, nutritional status