Using video aids to improve advance care planning in emergency situations

Using the Emergency Department Visit to Promote Advance Care Planning

NA · Massachusetts General Hospital · NCT04931797

This study is testing whether a video can help older adults and those with serious illnesses better plan their end-of-life care in emergency situations.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment900 (estimated)
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMassachusetts General Hospital (other)
Locations4 sites (Davis, California and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04931797 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of a video decision aid designed to enhance advance care planning documentation in the Emergency Department. Participants aged 65 and older, or those aged 50-64 with serious illness indicators, will watch the video followed by a discussion about their care preferences. The outcomes will be measured by tracking the rates of advance care planning documentation in electronic health records over a three-month period. The study aims to improve communication between patients and their healthcare providers regarding end-of-life care decisions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 65 and older or those aged 50-64 with serious illness indicators.

Not a fit: Patients who are non-English or non-Spanish speakers, legally blind, or medically unstable requiring ICU-level care may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to better documentation of patients' care preferences, ensuring their wishes are respected during emergencies.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using decision aids for advance care planning, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* anyone aged 65 and over or anyone aged over 50-64 with an indicator of serious illness

Exclusion Criteria:

* non english or spanish speakers those with a POLST legally blind medically non stable requiring ICU level care

Where this trial is running

Davis, California and 3 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: Emergencies

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.