Using electrical stimulation to help older adults recover from pneumonia and COPD
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) in Patients Hospitalized With Acute Exacerbation of COPD and/or Community Acquired Pneumonia
NA · University of Vermont · NCT05452226
This study is testing if using electrical stimulation can help older adults in the hospital recover better from pneumonia and COPD.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 8 (estimated) |
| Ages | 50 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Vermont (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Burlington, Vermont) |
| Trial ID | NCT05452226 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in older adults hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). The goal is to address the physical deconditioning and cognitive impairments that often occur during hospitalization due to immobility and illness. By applying NMES, the study aims to improve functional recovery and reduce long-term disabilities associated with these conditions. Participants will be trained in the use of NMES during their hospital stay, which is expected to last more than two days.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals over 50 years old who are hospitalized for CAP or AECOPD and have an expected hospital stay of more than two days.
Not a fit: Patients with severe mobility impairments, life expectancy under six months, or those requiring intensive care may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance recovery and quality of life for older adults suffering from pneumonia and COPD.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of NMES in similar contexts has shown promise, this specific application in hospitalized older adults is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. \>50 years old 2. Hospitalized for CAP and/or AECOPD 3. Expected hospital stay \>2 days after enrollment (to permit adequate application of and training in NMES) Exclusion Criteria: 1. \>7 days of hospitalization prior to enrollment 2. Life expectancy \< 6 months 3. Clinical Frailty Scale87 score \>6 4. Lower extremity impairments that prevent bilateral use of NMES (e.g., amputation, leg injury) 5. Acute lower extremity deep vein thrombosis 6. Implanted cardioverter-defibrillator or pacemaker 7. Body mass index (BMI) \>40 kg/m2 8. Currently requiring ICU care (including for sepsis)90. Prior ICU care during this hospitalization acceptable. 9. Severe skin breakdown on either lower extremity 10. Not ambulating independently prior to admission (gait aid is permitted) 11. New or existing intracranial, spinal, vascular, or neuromuscular condition limiting walking ability 12. Language barrier prohibiting outcome assessment 13. More than mild pre-existing dementia (IQCODE\* score \>3.6) 14. Likely discharge to setting where study team cannot oversee/monitor intervention (e.g., skilled nursing facility where team cannot monitor compliance) 15. Incarcerated 16. Refuses informed consent
Where this trial is running
Burlington, Vermont
- University of Vermont — Burlington, Vermont, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Renee Stapleton, MD, PhD — University of Vermont Department of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Sara Ardren, PA
- Email: sara.ardren@med.uvm.edu
- Phone: (802) 656-7953
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.
Conditions: Community-acquired Pneumonia, COPD Exacerbation Acute