Improving communication about diagnostic uncertainty in emergency departments
Official title: Targeted EHR-based Communication of Diagnostic Uncertainty (TECU) in the ED: An Effectiveness Implementation Trial
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10932370 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about making sure patients who leave the emergency room without a clear diagnosis get the right information and support, so they understand their situation and stay safe as they transition to their next steps in care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $499,999 |
| NIH project number | 5R18HS029791-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932370 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are discharged from the emergency department with an uncertain diagnosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who receive a definitive diagnosis at the time of discharge from the emergency department may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the communication process for patients discharged from the emergency department (ED) without a definitive diagnosis. It aims to implement a strategy using electronic health records (EHR) to ensure that clinicians effectively communicate diagnostic uncertainty to patients. The approach includes automated tools that assist clinicians in counseling patients, providing them with informative handouts, and ensuring that primary care providers are notified about the patient's uncertain diagnosis. By improving these communication practices, the research seeks to enhance patient safety during critical transitions of care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer transitions for patients discharged with diagnostic uncertainty, ultimately improving their understanding and management of their health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that improving communication strategies in healthcare settings can enhance patient outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rising, Kristin Laura — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Rising, Kristin Laura
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.