Using family caregivers to reduce delirium in older patients with fractured femur
The Effect of Involving a Family Caregiver in Promoting the Principles of the Hospital Elder Life Program on Decreasing Delirium Among Older Patients Hospitalized in the Orthopedic Unit Following Surgery for Post-fall Femoral Fracture.
This study tests if training family caregivers to help older patients with fractured femurs can reduce confusion and delirium while they are in the hospital.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Rambam Health Care Campus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Haifa, North) |
| Trial ID | NCT05321771 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of family caregivers applying the principles of the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) to reduce delirium in older patients hospitalized for fractured femur. Caregivers will receive structured training from a nurse clinical specialist in geriatrics to implement non-pharmacological interventions such as engaging patients in conversation, promoting orientation, and encouraging mobility. The study aims to assess the impact of this caregiver involvement on the incidence of delirium in this vulnerable population. By leveraging family support, the study seeks to enhance patient outcomes during acute hospitalization.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are males and females aged 65 years and older who are hospitalized for a fractured femur following a fall and have a family caregiver involved in their care.
Not a fit: Patients with documented psychiatric conditions, terminal diseases, or advanced dementia may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of delirium in older patients, improving their recovery and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with the HELP program in reducing delirium, indicating that this approach is based on established evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Males and females aged 65 years and older * Acute hospitalization in the orthopedic unit for fractured femur post-fall * Expected or actual surgical intervention for treatment of fracture * At least one family caregiver involved in supporting the patient during hospitalization Exclusion Criteria: * Documented conditions that have been clinically active during the previous 6 months: including psychiatric illness; cerebrovascular disease; brain malignancy; alcohol abuse; drug abuse * Terminal disease * Delirium * Inability to assess for delirium due to advanced dementia or sensory deprivation (marked impairment of vision or hearing) or any other condition that limits communication with the patient
Where this trial is running
Haifa, North
- Rambam Health Care Campus — Haifa, North, Israel (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Galit Geller Bigelman, MA — Rambam Health Care Campus
- Study coordinator: Galit Geller Bigelman, MA
- Email: GG_Bigelman@rambam.health.gov.il
- Phone: +97247771192
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.