Nurse Follow-Up Care for Post-ICU Recovery
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the impact of follow-up meetings between ICU nurses and their former patients after hospital discharge. It aims to determine if these encounters can enhance patient recovery following intensive care. Nurses will be divided into two groups: the Nurse Encounter Group, which will meet with former patients during follow-up visits, and the Nurse Control Group, which will not. Patients who were in the ICU and are suitable for follow-up are ideal candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could improve recovery experiences for future ICU patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for post-ICU recovery?
Research has shown that follow-up care led by nurses after ICU stays is safe for patients. The reviewed studies report no safety issues with this type of care, indicating that patients generally handle it well.
Nurses in these roles support patients during recovery, and patients often value having a familiar person to guide them through this process. Overall, evidence suggests that nurse follow-up care is a safe and supportive choice for those recovering from an ICU stay.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a novel approach to post-ICU recovery by looking at the impact of personalized nurse follow-up care. Unlike traditional post-ICU care, which often lacks continuity and personal touch, this trial investigates whether having the same nurse who cared for a patient in the ICU involved in their follow-up visits can enhance recovery outcomes. This method aims to improve the emotional and psychological support for patients, potentially leading to better overall recovery by leveraging the pre-existing nurse-patient relationship.
What evidence suggests that this nurse follow-up care method is effective for post-ICU recovery?
Studies have shown that follow-up care with nurses after ICU stays can aid patient recovery. Research indicates that these services help ICU survivors understand post-intensive care syndrome (PICS), regain normality, and cope positively. One study reported that 56% of patients showed some impairment in PICS components 12 months after leaving the hospital, highlighting the need for continued support. In this trial, participants in the Nurse Encounter Group will attend post-ICU clinics involving nurse encounters, offering adaptable ways to provide necessary follow-up care. These clinics aim to improve recovery by maintaining a connection between patients and the nurses who cared for them in the ICU. Meanwhile, the Nurse Control Group will not have these encounters, serving as a comparison to evaluate the effectiveness of the follow-up care.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jakob McSparron, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Michigan
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients who were previously in an ICU and are suitable for follow-up, as well as the nurses who cared for them. Nurses must be registered and have worked in an ICU. The study excludes anyone not meeting these criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Encounter
Nurses in the encounter group meet with former ICU patients at the post-ICU clinic
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in nurse fulfillment and burnout after the encounter
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Nurse control group
- Nurse Encounter Group
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Michigan
Lead Sponsor