Using wearable sensors to detect early signs of delirium
Wearable Sensors for Delirium Detection at an Early Stage (WeSen_delirium) - an Exploratory Study
This study is testing if wearable sensors like the Fitbit Charge 5 can help doctors spot early signs of delirium in hospitalized adults aged 65 and older by tracking their activity and sleep patterns.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Zurich and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05677646 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to identify activity and sleep patterns using wearable sensors, specifically the Fitbit Charge 5, to predict the onset of delirium in hospitalized adults aged 65 and older. By analyzing sensor data, the study seeks to establish indicators that may signal the early stages of delirium, allowing for timely intervention. The research will compare patterns of activity and sleep before and after delirium episodes, as well as between individuals, to develop a predictive algorithm. The feasibility of utilizing such data for clinical research purposes will also be assessed.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are hospitalized adults aged 65 years or older who can understand and consent to participate.
Not a fit: Patients currently experiencing acute delirium or those with a recent delirium diagnosis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier detection and management of delirium, improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital stays.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of wearable sensors for health monitoring is gaining traction, this specific approach to delirium detection is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Female and male inpatients aged 65 years or older * Cognitive ability to understand, consent to and participate in the study * Fluent in German * Provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * The presence of acute delirium, * or a delirium diagnosis made within the last 4 weeks prior to hospitalization, * The likelihood of an alcohol withdrawal delirium (CAGE Score \>1) * Limited knowledge of the German language * Dementia (Mini Mental Status Test Score ≤24)
Where this trial is running
Zurich and 1 other locations
- Klinik Hirslanden — Zurich, Switzerland (Recruiting)
- University Hospital Zurich, Internal Medicine — Zurich, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Martina Kleber, PD Dr. — University of Zurich
- Study coordinator: Martina Kleber, PD Dr.
- Email: Martina.Kleber@usz.ch
- Phone: +41 44 387 20 60
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.