Improving sleep for children undergoing stem cell transplants
Official title: Developing Restful Environments and Management Strategies for Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Patients
Run by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute · NCT06468618 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a program to help children getting stem cell transplants sleep better in the hospital by giving families tools to create a more restful environment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 9 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 6, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 2027 |
| Study ends | August 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06468618 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are English-speaking children aged 9-17 years scheduled to receive a stem cell transplant at Boston Children's Hospital.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients whose primary medical team declines permission to participate will 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 pilot study aims to address sleep disturbances in pediatric patients undergoing stem cell transplants by implementing the DREAMS program, which provides families with tools and information to create restful environments during hospitalization. The program is based on previous findings that highlighted disruptive noise and light levels in hospital settings, which can negatively impact sleep and recovery. By evaluating the acceptability and feasibility of this intervention, the study seeks to enhance the overall well-being of children during their critical recovery phase.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve sleep quality and recovery outcomes for pediatric stem cell transplant patients.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, previous studies have indicated that environmental factors significantly affect recovery in hospitalized patients, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patient aged 9-17 years. * Patient scheduled to receive a stem cell transplant at Boston Children's Hospital. * English speaking child and primary caregiver (parent/guardian). Exclusion Criteria: -Primary team declines permission to approach.
Where it's running
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting -
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Eric Zhou, PhD — Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
- Study coordinator: Lucille Lokko, BA
- Email: lucille_lokko@dfci.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-632-6221
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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.