Using rapid tests to manage respiratory outbreaks in long-term care homes

imProving Respiratory Outbreak Mitigation Through Point-of-care Testing in Long Term Care (PROMPT-LTC): A Cluster Randomized Trial

NA · Michael Garron Hospital · NCT06660433

This study is testing if quick tests for respiratory viruses can help long-term care homes manage outbreaks better than traditional testing methods.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorMichael Garron Hospital (other)
Locations2 sites (Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06660433 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of point-of-care testing for respiratory viruses in long-term care facilities. By providing timely diagnostic results for pathogens like Influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus, the study aims to determine if rapid testing can reduce the incidence and severity of respiratory outbreaks. The intervention involves comparing traditional testing methods with point-of-care testing to assess its impact on outbreak management. The trial is conducted in collaboration with several health institutions in Ontario.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are residents of long-term care facilities that are part of an Ontario Health Team associated with the participating hospitals.

Not a fit: Patients who are not residents of the participating long-term care facilities or those already using point-of-care testing will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the spread of respiratory viruses in long-term care homes, improving patient safety and health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using rapid testing for infectious diseases, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial, though this specific application in long-term care is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

\- Long-term care facility engaged with an Ontario Health Team overseen by Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, Michael Garron Hospital or Humber River Health

Exclusion Criteria:

* No signed statement of agreement for study participation
* Pre-existing use of a point-of-care testing platform

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario and 1 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Outbreaks, respiratory virus outbreaks, outbreak mitigation, long-term care home

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.