Nurse Nudge for Urgent Care
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a nurse-led follow-up program called "Nurse Nudge" to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits. It targets patients recently diagnosed with conditions that might require near-term emergency care. After their appointment, some patients will receive a follow-up message or call from a nurse, while others will receive the usual care. The trial seeks patients aged 30 and older diagnosed with an ambulatory sensitive condition (a condition that could lead to emergency visits) at a Geisinger clinic. Participants will help researchers determine if nurse follow-ups can better manage these conditions and prevent emergency visits. As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to innovative healthcare solutions that could improve patient outcomes.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on reducing emergency department visits rather than medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this nurse-led intervention is safe?
Research has shown that nudge interventions, such as the Nurse Nudge, are generally well-received. One study found that 79.2% of these interventions improved care quality without causing harm. This indicates that people typically respond well to nudges without negative effects. Another study demonstrated that reminders in electronic health records helped patients complete important health tasks, like colorectal screenings, without any safety issues. Although specific safety data for Nurse Nudge in humans is not available, the overall evidence suggests it is a safe approach.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Nurse Nudge approach because it enhances follow-up care by actively involving nurses in patient outreach. Unlike standard practices, where follow-up notifications may be inconsistent or absent, Nurse Nudge ensures that nurses receive specific alerts to contact patients after an ambulatory sensitive diagnosis. This proactive communication could improve patient outcomes by ensuring timely care and reducing unnecessary urgent care visits. The method leverages existing healthcare resources efficiently, making it a promising strategy for improving patient management without the need for new medications or invasive procedures.
What evidence suggests that the Nurse Nudge intervention is effective in reducing emergency department use?
Research has shown that "nudge" strategies can improve the quality of care. In one study, 79.2% of these strategies led to better care results. Another review found that most nudge methods positively affected health care decisions. These nudges guide health care providers to follow best practices, improving patient outcomes. In this trial, the Nurse Nudge intervention, where nurses follow up with patients, aims to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits after clinic appointments. Participants in the Nurse Nudge arm will receive follow-up outreach, while those in the control arm will receive standard follow-up notifications.23467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
The trial is for adult patients at Geisinger's CMSL clinics diagnosed with conditions likely to lead to emergency department use. It excludes those under 30 and focuses on different age groups: 30-45, 45-64, and 65+. Participants must have had an appointment where they were diagnosed with an ambulatory sensitive condition.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Nurses provide follow-up outreach via calls or patient portal messages to patients diagnosed with ambulatory sensitive conditions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for emergency department visits and effectiveness of the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Nurse Nudge
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Geisinger Clinic
Lead Sponsor