Helping emergency department patients change unhealthy behaviors
Preventing Non-communicable Diseases by Screening and Educating Emergency Department Attendees on Health-risk Behaviours: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing a new way to help people who visit the emergency department change unhealthy habits by providing support and resources shortly after their visit.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT05680519 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and potential effectiveness of a proactive intervention designed to help individuals attending the emergency department (ED) modify their health-risk behaviors. Participants will complete a behavioral risk factor survey, and those eligible will receive a brief intervention via telephone within three days of their ED visit. The intervention utilizes the AWARD model to assess and advise on health-risk behaviors, along with providing educational resources to promote healthier lifestyles.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who are triaged as semi-urgent or non-urgent and exhibit at least one health-risk behavior.
Not a fit: Patients with poor cognitive states, mental illnesses, or those currently participating in another related study may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could empower patients to make significant lifestyle changes that reduce their health risks and improve overall well-being.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar proactive interventions in primary care settings, suggesting potential for effectiveness in emergency department contexts as well.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * (1) age ≥18 years, * (2) triage as semi-urgent (level 4) or non-urgent (level 5), and * (3) the presence of at least one health risk behaviour (tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity) Exclusion Criteria: * (1) poor cognitive state or mental illness and * (2) participation in another related study
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ho Cheung William Li, PhD — Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Ho Cheung William Li, PhD
- Email: williamli@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 39430889
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.