Albert Health App PEG Study
This study explores how well a new digital app, called Albert Health, works for people who have a feeding tube. Many people with feeding tubes experience problems like pain or infection, and it can be worrying to know when to get help. The app is designed to support patients and their carers in managing their feeding tube and understanding potential issues. Researchers want to see if the app is easy to use, helpful, and accessible. This 'feasibility study' is an important first step to see if the app could be useful on a larger scale in the future. It's about making sure the app helps people feel more confident and supported in their daily care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Each year in the UK, about seven thousand people have a feeding tube inserted, often because they can't eat, drink, or take medication by mouth. While these tubes are very helpful, more than a third of people might experience a problem in the first year, with many of these happening in the first month. Common problems include pain, infections, or leaks around the tube. Most of these are minor, but they can be very worrying for patients and their families because the symptoms can sometimes be similar to more serious issues. It can be hard to know when to ask for medical help.
This study is looking at an app called Albert Health. This app is designed to give support and information to people who have a new feeding tube and their carers. It aims to help them understand how to look after the tube, use their equipment, and know what to do if a problem arises. The research team wants to find out if the app is easy to use, helpful, and accessible for everyday use.
This first study is called a 'feasibility study', which means the researchers are checking if the app works well in practice and if people find it acceptable. If this study is successful, it could lead to a larger study later to see if the app can genuinely improve care for many more people with feeding tubes.
Key takeaways
- This study is testing an app to help people with new feeding tubes.
- It aims to make tube care easier and less worrying for patients and carers.
- Participation involves using an app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Researchers want to know if the app is useful and easy to use.
- It's a first step to potentially improve support for many patients.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, participants must be at least 18 years old and either have a new feeding tube (called a PEG tube) or be the main carer for someone with a new PEG tube. It's important that the person who will be using the app (either the patient or their carer) can read and understand English. You or your carer must also have access to a smartphone or tablet to use the app.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you're moving into a nursing home, or if both you and your carer have very poor eyesight, this study might not be suitable. Also, if your feeding tube care will be managed solely by district nurses or other healthcare professionals, or if you have a major surgery planned very soon after getting your feeding tube, you won't be able to participate. The study is open to both men and women.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you getting a new feeding tube (or caring for someone who is)?
- Can you or your main carer read and understand English?
- Do you or your main carer have a smartphone or tablet?
- Are you NOT moving into a nursing home after your tube is inserted?
- Will you be primarily managing your tube care yourself or with a family carer (not solely by district nurses)?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you will be asked to use the Albert Health app on your smartphone or tablet. The researchers will be checking how well you can use the app and whether you find it helpful for managing your feeding tube care. They will also gather information about your experiences with the feeding tube and the app. The study doesn't involve any extra visits or medication, but it will involve you using the app regularly and sharing your feedback. The total time you'd be involved in the study isn't specified, but it's focused on the period after your feeding tube is first put in.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- The Royal Wolverhampton NHS TrustVerified postcodeWolverhampton, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a feeding tube (PEG tube)?
A PEG tube is a small tube put directly into the stomach to give food, fluid, or medicine when you can't swallow properly.
Who is this study for?
It's for people aged 18 and over who are getting a new feeding tube, or for their main carer, who can use an app on a smartphone or tablet.
What is the Albert Health app?
It's a digital app designed to help you or your carer manage your feeding tube care and understand potential problems.
Do I have to go to extra appointments for this study?
No, this study is about using an app at home, so it doesn't involve extra hospital visits or appointments.
What if I can't speak English well?
To join this study, the person using the app (you or your carer) needs to be able to read and understand English.
How to find out more
Helen Steed
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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