Relief of dyspnea with high-flow nasal therapy in palliative care

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In adults with incurable illnesses, severe dyspnea can greatly reduce quality of life. This trial examines high-flow nasal therapy (HFNT) delivered via a nasal cannula, with airflow directed toward the face as a potential option for comfort. Participants receive HFNT and face-directed airflow, and feasibility and relief of dyspnea are assessed in palliative care settings. The study targets 30–40 patients recruited from the Hatanpää Palliative Care Ward and Pirkanmaa Hospice in Tampere, Finland. Eligibility requires age 18+, significant dyspnea (NRS ≥ 4), and informed consent.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* The patient is in palliative care (ICD-10 diagnostic code Z51.5 palliative care)
* Age ≥ 18 years
* Ability to understand the study and provide informed consent to participate
* Significant breathlessness (NRS = Numeric Rating Scale ≥ 4).
* The treating physician has assessed that the patient would not benefit from treatment in intensive care unit or monitor unit.
* The treating physician has assessed that the patient would not benefit from invasive mechanical ventilation (intubation) or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Decreased level of consciousness, delirium, or other lack of cooperation that prevents participation.
* Respiratory support other than HFNT is required.
* The patient has received HFNT during the same admission to palliative care ward or hospice.
* The cause of dyspnea can be treated immediately.
* Inability to provide informed consent to participate.

Where it's running

• Pirkanmaa Hospice
  Tampere, Finland Recruiting
• Hatanpää hospital, Palliative Care Centre and Home Hospital Services, Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Tampere University Hospital
  Tampere, Finland Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Juho Lehto, Professor — Tampere University Hospital and Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
• Study coordinator: Juho Lehto, Professor
• Email: juho.lehto@tuni.fi
• Phone: +358 50 4090974

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.