Improving care for patients with acute respiratory failure at the end of life

Optimizing Time-Limited Trials of Mechanical Ventilation in Acute Respiratory Failure: A Mixed Methods Observational Study

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11077805

This study is looking at ways to improve care for patients with severe breathing problems, especially those who are close to the end of their lives, by trying out short-term treatment plans that help everyone involved—patients, families, and doctors—make better decisions together about what care is best for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11077805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the care provided to patients experiencing acute respiratory failure, particularly those nearing the end of life. It focuses on implementing time-limited trials, which involve a temporary agreement between patients, their families, and healthcare providers to assess the effectiveness of life-sustaining treatments over a set period. By examining communication and decision-making processes in the ICU, the study aims to create better care delivery models that align with patients' needs and preferences. The approach includes observational methods to gather insights from patients, families, and healthcare teams about their experiences and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients suffering from acute respiratory failure who are facing end-of-life decisions and their families.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing acute respiratory failure or those who are not at the end of life may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved end-of-life care for patients with acute respiratory failure, ensuring that treatment aligns more closely with their values and wishes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using time-limited trials in ICU settings, indicating that this approach could be beneficial, although it remains underutilized and requires further formalization.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.