Virtual Family Participation for ICU Care
(VR-Family Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how families can join hospital team meetings virtually when their loved ones are in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit). It aims to determine if virtual participation in rounds is feasible and how it impacts family involvement, satisfaction, and stress levels. The trial suits family members of ICU patients expected to remain in the ICU for more than 48 hours and who can join online meetings using a phone or computer. As an unphased study, this trial offers families a unique opportunity to enhance their involvement in their loved one's care.
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 virtual family participation in ICU rounds is safe?
Research shows that family members can safely and effectively join ICU rounds virtually. Studies have found that families participating through video found it easy and were very satisfied. These studies reported no major safety issues or problems. Virtual participation also helped families feel more involved, leading to positive experiences.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about virtual family participation in ICU care because it introduces a new level of emotional support and communication for patients, which isn't a standard part of current ICU treatment. Unlike traditional ICU care, where family involvement is limited by visiting hours and physical presence, this method allows loved ones to engage in daily rounds via secure video conferencing. This approach aims to reduce patient stress and improve family satisfaction by keeping them informed and emotionally connected, which could lead to better overall outcomes in the intensive care setting.
What evidence suggests that virtual family participation is effective for ICU care?
Research shows that virtual participation of family members in ICU rounds is both possible and helpful. In this trial, participants will join daily ICU team rounds via secure video conference. Studies have found that families who participate in this way feel more involved and satisfied. This involvement appears to improve their mental health and their perception of the quality of care their loved ones receive. Observations suggest that family involvement can lead to better outcomes focused on the family's needs. Overall, early evidence indicates that virtual participation could enhance the ICU experience for families.12467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who are family members of ICU patients expected to stay in the ICU for more than 48 hours. Participants must have the tech skills and equipment (phone or computer with internet, audio/video) to join virtual ICU rounds and communicate in English or French.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Study participants will be present during daily ICU team rounds by secure video conference
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for family satisfaction, anxiety, depression, and engagement within 1-week of ICU discharge
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Participation in virtual rounds
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Lady Davis Institute
Lead Sponsor
Quebec Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR) SUPPORT Unit
Collaborator
Fonds de la Recherche en Santé du Québec
Collaborator
McGill Faculty of Medicine
Collaborator
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Collaborator
Unité de Soutien SSA Québec
Collaborator