Improving education for patients needing hemodialysis access
Official title: Transforming Hemodialysis-Related Vascular Access Education (THRiVE)
Run by University of Pennsylvania · NCT05997875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing different ways to educate patients with advanced kidney disease about getting the right access for hemodialysis to see which method helps them understand and prepare the best.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 360 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Baltimore, Maryland and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 5, 2023 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | September 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 25, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05997875 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with advanced chronic kidney disease who have discussed hemodialysis options with their nephrologist.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are planning for alternative treatments like peritoneal dialysis or have already undergone vascular access placement may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study focuses on enhancing patient education regarding vascular access for hemodialysis in individuals with advanced chronic kidney disease. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three educational approaches: standard education materials, enhanced education with telehealth support, or usual care provided by their healthcare team. The goal is to assess which educational method best prepares patients for the placement of hemodialysis vascular access. Participants will complete questionnaires to evaluate their understanding and preparedness throughout the process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better patient preparedness and outcomes for those undergoing hemodialysis vascular access placement.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown that enhanced educational interventions can improve patient outcomes in similar contexts, suggesting a promising approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 18 years or older 2. Nephrology visit for chronic kidney disease during the last 18 months 3. Most recent eGFR less than or equal to 20 ml/min/1.73 m2 or 2-year Kidney Failure Risk Equation score greater than 40% 4. Documentation in the medical record or confirmation from the treating nephrologist of a patient-nephrologist discussion about hemodialysis Exclusion Criteria: 1. Planning for peritoneal dialysis, preemptive transplant, or conservative management of kidney failure 2. Previous placement of an AV access 3. Prior appointment with surgeon for AV access evaluation or creation 4. Cognitive dysfunction or severe visual impairment that prevents use of the education materials 5. Does not speak either English or Spanish
Where it's running
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, Maryland, United States Recruiting -
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States Recruiting -
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laura M. Dember, MD — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Leah Bernardo
- Email: lleah@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: +1 215-746-4755
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.