Improving ICU care through behavioral strategies

Behavioral Economic and Staffing Strategies To Increase Adoption of an Evidence Based Bundle in the Intensive Care Unit (BEST ICU): A Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of Nebraska · NCT06184945

This study is testing two strategies to help ICU staff use better practices for caring for critically ill adults, especially those facing health challenges, to see if it can improve patient recovery and reduce complications.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment8100 (estimated)
Ages19 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Nebraska Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Iowa City, Iowa and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06184945 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance the adoption of effective evidence-based practices in ICUs for critically ill adults, particularly focusing on those with health disparities. It evaluates two strategies: real-time audit and feedback, and registered nurse implementation facilitation, to promote the ABCDEF bundle, which addresses common complications like delirium and weakness. By integrating these strategies, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes and reduce the incidence of preventable impairments associated with critical illness. The research is grounded in implementation science and behavioral economics to ensure practical applicability in real-world settings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 19 years old who require invasive mechanical ventilation during their ICU stay.

Not a fit: Patients who are already on chronic long-term mechanical ventilation or those who are prisoners may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve the quality of care and outcomes for critically ill patients in ICUs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that similar implementation strategies can lead to improved clinical outcomes in critical care settings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \>19 years at time of ICU admission
* Received invasive mechanical ventilation while in the ICU
* Admitted to participating cluster ICU
* ICU length of stay of at least 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient who is admitted to the hospital who is already receiving chronic long-term mechanical ventilation from the home, assisted living, or long-term care setting
* Prisoners

Where this trial is running

Iowa City, Iowa and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Implementation ScienceDeliriumCritical IllnessMechanical Ventilation ComplicationICU Acquired WeaknessPainABCDEF bundle, delirium, intensive care, critical care, mechanical ventilation
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.