Using video games to improve trauma care for older adults

Using video games to increase implementation of clinical practice guidelines in trauma triage

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11004113

This study is looking at whether playing video games can help emergency doctors get better at quickly and accurately assessing older trauma patients, so they can provide the right care when it’s needed most.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004113 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how video game-based training can enhance the ability of emergency medicine physicians to accurately triage trauma patients aged 65 and older. By focusing on improving physician behavior through engaging training methods, the study aims to reduce the under-triage of older patients, which is a significant issue in emergency departments. The trial will involve a national sample of physicians who will be randomized into different training groups to assess the effectiveness of the video game intervention compared to traditional education methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who may require emergency care due to trauma.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those not experiencing trauma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved trauma care for older adults, reducing mortality and loss of independence.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using innovative training methods, like video games, to improve medical practices, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.