Embedding palliative care in the medical ICU
Impact of an Embedded Palliative Care and Hospice Practitioner in the Medical ICU
NA · Washington University School of Medicine · NCT06574672
This study is testing whether having a palliative care specialist in the ICU can help critically ill patients get better care and improve their outcomes compared to those who don’t have this support.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 2600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT06574672 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of having a dedicated palliative care practitioner embedded within a medical intensive care unit (ICU) on patient outcomes and healthcare utilization. The practitioner will provide timely and proactive consultations based on clinical criteria and estimated mortality risk, comparing outcomes for patients seen by the practitioner to those in an adjacent ICU and historical patients. The aim is to improve palliative care and hospice utilization as well as overall healthcare quality metrics for critically ill patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are admitted to the medical intensive care units at the participating tertiary referral center.
Not a fit: Patients who are not critically ill or those who do not require palliative care services may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the quality of life and care for critically ill patients by ensuring timely access to palliative care services.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar embedded palliative care approaches, indicating potential for success in this intervention.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients admitted to the medical intensive care units at a tertiary referral center * Patients must be at least 18 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * None
Where this trial is running
St Louis, Missouri
- Barnes Jewish Hospital — St Louis, Missouri, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stephen Chi, MD — Washington University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Stephen Chi, MD
- Email: chis@wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-273-6176
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Critical Illness, End of Life, Quality of Life, Palliative Care, Hospice, Medical ICU