Reducing unnecessary diagnostic testing in critically ill children
Leveraging implementation and behavioral science to reduce harmful overuse of diagnostic testing in critically ill children
This study is looking at ways to help doctors avoid doing too many unnecessary blood tests for critically ill children who might have sepsis, so they can make better decisions and keep healthcare costs down while ensuring kids get the right care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on minimizing the overuse of diagnostic tests, particularly blood cultures, in critically ill children suspected of having sepsis. It aims to understand the behaviors and practices that lead to unnecessary testing, which can result in harmful overtreatment and increased healthcare costs. By implementing behavioral science strategies, the project seeks to improve clinical decision-making and reduce the reliance on tests that often yield false positives. The research involves collaboration across multiple pediatric intensive care units to identify effective interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill children in pediatric intensive care units who are suspected of having sepsis.
Not a fit: Patients who are not critically ill or do not exhibit symptoms of sepsis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more cost-effective care for critically ill children by reducing unnecessary diagnostic testing.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that reducing unnecessary diagnostic testing can improve patient outcomes and decrease healthcare costs, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woods-Hill, Charlotte Z — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Woods-Hill, Charlotte Z
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 below.