Optimisation of the Blood Culture Pathway Utilising Behaviour Change
This study in Gloucestershire hospitals is all about improving how blood samples are taken and tested. These tests are really important for finding serious infections, like those that can cause sepsis, and helping doctors choose the right treatments quickly. We're looking at records from past blood tests to see how they were handled. We're also asking nurses, doctors, and other staff who take these blood samples to share their experiences through questionnaires and group chats. The aim is to understand what works well and what could be better, so we can make changes that help patients get diagnosed and treated faster and more effectively.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you feel very unwell, and your doctor thinks you might have a serious infection in your blood. They would take a blood sample, called a blood culture, to find out exactly what germ is causing the problem. This is a really important test because it helps doctors choose the right medicine to make you better. This study is looking at how these blood cultures are collected and tested in hospitals across Gloucestershire.
We want to make sure this process works as well as possible. This means looking at things like how much blood is taken and how quickly the sample gets to the lab for testing. Getting this right can help doctors figure out what's wrong faster, which is key for treating serious conditions like sepsis, a dangerous reaction to an infection.
To do this, we're doing a couple of things. First, we're looking at existing records of blood tests that were taken between February 2023 and April 2024. These are routine tests, not special ones for this study. Second, we're inviting the healthcare staff – like nurses and doctors – who collect these blood samples to tell us about their experiences through surveys and discussion groups. By gathering all this information, we hope to find ways to make the whole process smoother and more effective for patients.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to improve how blood samples are taken and tested in hospitals.
- It focuses on finding serious infections and aiding quick treatment for conditions like sepsis.
- Information from past adult blood tests will be reviewed.
- Hospital staff who collect blood samples will be asked for their experiences.
- The goal is to make the blood testing process more efficient for better patient care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking at information from blood tests that have already been taken from adult patients in Gloucestershire hospitals. These are routine blood tests, not ones taken specially for this study.
We are also inviting hospital staff who collect blood samples from adults, such as nurses, doctors, and physician's associates, to take part.
No children's blood samples will be included, and we won't be using any records where important details about the blood test weren't properly written down in the hospital system.
- Are you an adult patient whose blood culture samples were taken between February 2023 and April 2024?
- Are you an adult hospital staff member (e.g., nurse, doctor) who collects blood cultures within the Trust?
- Were your blood culture details successfully recorded in the hospital system?
- Are you not a paediatric (child) patient?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you are a patient, you won't be actively taking part in this study. We are simply looking at existing records of blood tests that were taken as part of your usual care between February 2023 and April 2024.
If you are a healthcare staff member (like a nurse, doctor, or physician's associate) who collects blood samples from adults in the Trust, you might be invited to volunteer. If you choose to take part, you would either fill out a questionnaire, or join a small group discussion, or both. These activities would focus on your experiences with collecting blood samples. The total time commitment would be minimal, involving one survey or one discussion group.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Gloucestershire Royal HospitalGloucester, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a blood culture?
A blood culture is a special blood test that checks for germs in your bloodstream. It helps doctors find out what's making you sick and choose the right medicine.
Will I have to do anything if I'm a patient?
No, if you're a patient, you won't need to do anything. We are just looking at information from blood tests you've already had as part of your care.
Who is running this study?
This study is being run by Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to improve their services.
What is 'sepsis'?
Sepsis is a very serious reaction your body can have to an infection. Finding and treating the infection quickly is extremely important.
How will this study help patients?
By understanding and improving how blood samples are collected and tested, we hope to help doctors diagnose and treat serious infections like sepsis more quickly and effectively, which can lead to better patient outcomes.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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