The COVID Dome Trial
This study, called 'The COVID Dome Trial,' is looking at a new clear plastic dome designed to go over a patient's head during surgery. The main goal is to see if this dome can help prevent the spread of germs, like those causing COVID-19, in hospitals, particularly during procedures where germs might become airborne. Researchers will compare patients who use the dome with those who don't, chosen by chance. They'll assess how the dome affects the patient’s experience, and also track things like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Patients will be asked to share their experiences through a survey and might be video recorded while using the dome.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine a clear, bubble-like shield placed gently over a patient's head during an operation. That's essentially what researchers are testing in 'The COVID Dome Trial.' The main idea behind this new device is to act as a barrier, trapping any tiny particles or germs that might come out of a patient's mouth or nose, especially when a breathing tube is being put in. This could help stop these germs from spreading through the air to doctors, nurses, and other patients in the hospital.
The study wants to understand two main things. Firstly, how does having this dome around your head feel during surgery? Do patients find it comfortable, or does it cause any worry? Secondly, the researchers will be carefully observing medical details like your heart rate, blood pressure, and how much oxygen is in your blood while the dome is in use. They'll be comparing these measurements and your overall experience with patients who have similar surgery but don't use the dome.
By doing this, they hope to learn if this new device is a safe and effective way to make hospitals even safer, especially by reducing the risk of airborne illnesses like COVID-19 spreading. It's about finding new ways to protect everyone in the hospital environment.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are testing a clear head dome during surgery to reduce germ spread.
- The study assesses patient experience and medical readings (like heart rate) with the dome.
- Participants are randomly chosen to use the dome or not.
- Taking part involves a short survey after surgery and potential video recording.
- This study aims to improve hospital safety against airborne illnesses.
- Participation will not change your routine medical care.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you would need to be an adult over 18 years old and scheduled for a planned operation. This surgery should be in your tummy, pelvis, lower leg, or the lower part of your arm, and you would need to lie on your back or in a similar position during the operation. Your doctor must also plan for you to have a breathing tube put in for the surgery.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are pregnant, or if you have a very high body mass index (BMI over 40). Also, if your doctors expect you to have difficulty with your airway during the procedure, or if you get very anxious, especially in small spaces (like claustrophobia), you wouldn't be able to participate. Serious heart or breathing problems would also prevent you from joining.
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 over 18 years old?
- Are you having a planned operation on your tummy, pelvis, lower leg, or lower arm?
- Will you need a breathing tube for your surgery?
- Are you generally healthy, without severe heart or lung conditions?
- Are you not pregnant?
- Do you not suffer from severe anxiety or claustrophobia?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be assigned by chance (like flipping a coin) to either use the 'COVID Dome' during your surgery or not. Your doctors and nurses will decide on your treatment and care as usual. During the study, you'll be asked to let the research team or your anaesthetist know about any problems or worries you have that you think are linked to the study.
After your surgery, you will be asked to complete a short survey, which should take about 10 minutes, to share your experiences with the dome. If you weren't in the group that used the dome before you went to sleep, you'll be shown a video of it in action and asked some questions about it. For those who use the dome, parts of your time with it will be video recorded. This study only involves your time around your scheduled surgery, with no extra visits or follow-up appointments required beyond the survey.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- IWK Health CentreVerified postcodeHalifax, Canada
Common questions
What is the 'COVID Dome'?
It's a clear, bubble-like plastic cover placed over a patient's head during surgery to stop germs spreading through the air.
Why is this study being done?
The study aims to see if the dome can make hospitals safer by reducing the spread of airborne germs during certain medical procedures.
Will I definitely get the dome if I join?
No, you'll be randomly assigned by chance to either use the dome or not use it, so researchers can compare the two groups fairly.
What will I have to do if I take part?
You'll tell staff about any problems, fill out a short survey after surgery, and might be video recorded or watch a video of the dome in use.
Will my regular medical care be affected?
No, your medical care will be exactly the same whether you are in the study or not, and your doctors will continue to manage your treatment as usual.
How to find out more
Ana Sjaus, MSc, MD, FRCPC
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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