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Clinical Trial Summary

The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of a multi-faceted communication intervention for family members of critically ill patients to reduce the family members' long-term symptoms of depression and anxiety.


Clinical Trial Description

One in four elderly Americans die in or shortly after discharge from an intensive care unit. An expanding body of literature documents that physician-family communication and end-of-life care is poor in intensive care units. These deficiencies are associated with high rates of adverse psychological outcomes among surrogates, physician-family conflict, and life support decisions that may be inconsistent with patients' goals and preferences. There is a lack on information on practical, generalizable interventions that effectively improve this important aspect of care for elderly patients and their families.

The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a multifaceted communication intervention to improve psychological outcomes among family members of critically ill patients, using a randomized, controlled trial design. ;


Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Open Label, Primary Purpose: Supportive Care


Related Conditions & MeSH terms

  • Critical Illness
  • Physician-Family Communication in Intensive Care Units
  • Surrogate Decision-making for Critically Ill Patients

NCT number NCT01107704
Study type Interventional
Source University of Pittsburgh
Contact
Status Completed
Phase N/A
Start date April 2010
Completion date August 2013

See also
  Status Clinical Trial Phase
Completed NCT01982877 - The Four Supports Study: Family Support Intervention in Intensive Care Units N/A