Fluid Responsiveness and Venous Congestion Evolution During Volume Expansion
This study is for very ill patients in intensive care. Doctors sometimes give these patients extra fluids to help them, but too much fluid can cause problems, like veins becoming too full. This is called venous congestion and can make patients sicker. We already know that sometimes patients need more fluid even when their veins are full, but we don't fully understand how these two things change over time after a patient gets fluids. This study aims to watch carefully how fluids affect both the body's response and any vein fullness, helping doctors find the best way to give fluids and avoid harm.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When people are very unwell, especially in an intensive care unit (ICU), doctors often need to give them extra fluids through a drip. This is to make sure their body, especially their heart and blood vessels, are working as best they can. However, giving too much fluid can sometimes cause other problems. One of these problems is 'venous congestion', which means the veins become too full of blood, making it harder for the body to clear fluids and potentially making the patient feel worse.
Doctors need to understand if a patient will benefit from more fluids – this is called 'fluid responsiveness'. At the same time, they also need to watch for signs of venous congestion. Sometimes, a patient might need more fluid even if they show signs of venous congestion. The aim of this study is to carefully observe what happens to both of these things – how well a patient responds to fluids and if their veins become congested – when a small amount of fluid is given. This helps doctors learn the best way to give fluids to critically ill patients.
By understanding this better, doctors hope to avoid giving too much fluid when it's not needed and give enough when it is. This research could help improve how severely ill patients are cared for, making sure they get the right amount of fluid without leading to other complications, ultimately aiming for better recovery and health outcomes for everyone.
Key takeaways
- This study is about how critically ill patients respond to IV fluids.
- It will help doctors understand fluid balance better.
- Participation involves extra monitoring of body functions.
- Your medical care will not change due to participation.
- The findings may help future patients receive safer, more effective treatments.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who are currently in the intensive care unit (ICU) in hospital. The doctors looking after them will already have decided that they need some extra fluids given through a drip.
To be part of the study, patients will also need to have special equipment already in place that measures how their heart and blood circulation are working. This is routine monitoring for very ill patients in ICU.
Patients who are pregnant or who, or whose family, do not wish to take part will not be included in the study.
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 currently being cared for in the intensive care unit (ICU)?
- Have your doctors decided you need extra fluids?
- Are you not pregnant?
What does participation involve?
We don’t know specifically what taking part involves as this information isn't given in the summary. However, clinical trials often involve extra checks by the study team, such as more frequent measurements or scans. You would likely not receive any new or different medication as part of this study, as it observes the effects of fluids already prescribed by your doctor. There would also likely be some follow-up beyond the initial fluid administration to see how your body responds over time. The total duration of your participation would depend on how long you remain in the ICU and how long the researchers need to monitor you.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- First affiliated Hospital , Sun Yat-sen UniversityVerified postcodeGuangzhou, China· Recruiting
- Longgang Central Hospital of ShenzhenVerified postcodeShenzhen, China· Recruiting
- Bicetre HospitalVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'fluid responsiveness'?
It means how well your body, especially your heart, responds when you receive extra fluids through a drip.
What is 'venous congestion'?
This is when the veins, which carry blood back to your heart, become too full because of too much fluid in the body.
Will I get different treatment if I join this study?
No, you will receive the same fluid treatment your doctors have already decided you need. The study just observes how your body reacts.
Who is running this study?
This information isn't detailed here, but the study is being conducted by medical researchers in an intensive care setting.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any time, and this will not affect your care.
How to find out more
Xiang SI, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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