Swab Testing for Community-Acquired Pneumonia
(STOP-Vanc Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a quick nasal swab test for MRSA (a type of bacteria) can reduce vancomycin use in adults with community-acquired pneumonia in the ICU. The trial will assess whether promptly notifying doctors of a negative MRSA result influences their decision to discontinue vancomycin. Participants should be adults with suspected pneumonia who have been admitted to the ICU and are currently receiving vancomycin. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to important research that could enhance antibiotic use in critical care settings.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it focuses on patients already receiving vancomycin, so you may need to continue that medication if you are already on it.
What prior data suggests that the MRSA Nasal Swab PCR is safe?
Research has shown that the MRSA nasal swab PCR test is a safe and effective method for detecting MRSA infections. Studies indicate it is over 95% accurate in confirming the absence of an MRSA infection, aiding doctors in deciding whether to safely discontinue antibiotics like vancomycin.
No reports of harmful effects from the nasal swab test have emerged. The swab involves a quick and simple procedure that collects a sample from inside the nose. It is non-invasive and causes little to no discomfort for most people. Therefore, for those considering participation in a trial that includes this test, current studies suggest it is well-tolerated and safe.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the MRSA Nasal Swab PCR test for community-acquired pneumonia because it offers a quick and non-invasive way to identify the presence of MRSA bacteria. Unlike traditional methods that require more time to culture bacteria, this nasal swab uses PCR technology to quickly detect MRSA, allowing for faster clinical decisions. If the test shows a negative result, it enables healthcare providers to discontinue the use of vancomycin, a strong antibiotic, which can reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and its associated side effects. This approach not only speeds up treatment decisions but also helps in combating antibiotic resistance.
What evidence suggests that the MRSA Nasal Swab PCR is effective for reducing vancomycin use in community-acquired pneumonia?
Research has shown that the MRSA Nasal Swab PCR test, which participants in this trial may receive, accurately rules out MRSA infections. It has a negative predictive value of over 95%, effectively confirming when someone does not have MRSA. In some studies, this accuracy reached 99.2%. This reliability helps determine when it's safe to stop using antibiotics like vancomycin, aiding doctors in avoiding unnecessary treatments and benefiting patient health.13467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jeffrey Freiberg, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults over 18 with suspected pneumonia, admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center's MICU from the ER or hospital floor within 48 hours. They must be in the MICU and on vancomycin without prior nasal decolonization. Prisoners or those hospitalized for over 48 hours before MICU admission are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either MRSA nasal swab testing with potential vancomycin de-escalation or no swab testing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including 30-day all-cause mortality
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- MRSA Nasal Swab PCR
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Lead Sponsor