Application of a point-of-care testing full blood count analyser in neonatal (<2 months) clinical care
Harrogate Hospital is trialling a new blood testing device called HemoScreen for babies under two months old. Currently, blood samples from tiny babies can sometimes clot, causing delays and needing re-tests. This new portable device, used on the ward, could provide quicker full blood count (FBC) results from just a few drops of blood, avoiding these delays and reducing the amount of blood needed from vulnerable infants. The study will compare its results with standard lab tests to see if it's suitable for regular use. Taking part means your baby's routine blood tests might also be checked by this new machine up to twice, without taking extra blood.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Harrogate Hospital is looking into new ways to get important blood test results for very young babies, those under two months old. Sometimes, when a baby's blood sample is sent to the main laboratory for a 'full blood count' (which checks different parts of the blood), it can clot. This means doctors have to take another sample and wait longer for results, which can be stressful when a baby is unwell. This study is testing a special new device called HemoScreen to see if it could solve this problem.
The HemoScreen is a small, portable machine that can test blood samples right on the baby's ward. It only needs a tiny amount of blood – just a few drops – and can give results much faster. This means doctors could get important information about a baby's health more quickly, without the need for extra needles or long waits. The aim is to make blood testing less stressful for babies and their parents, and to help doctors make decisions faster.
Over the next year or so, the hospital will compare the results from the HemoScreen with the results from the usual lab tests. This will help them understand if the new device is accurate and reliable enough to be used generally for babies. If successful, this could significantly improve care for newborns by reducing delays and making blood tests easier for everyone involved.
Key takeaways
- Testing a new device for quicker blood tests in newborns.
- Uses tiny blood samples from routine tests, no extra needles.
- Aims to reduce delays and re-tests for babies under two months.
- Results from new device won't affect your baby's treatment.
- Participation is voluntary and causes no extra risk to your baby.
Who may be eligible?
This study is particularly for very young babies. To be considered, your baby must be under two months old. Both boys and girls can take part.
Your baby can only have their blood samples included in this research up to two times during their hospital stay. If your baby is older than two months, or if you, as their parent, don't want them to take part, then they won't be included in this specific 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.
- Is your baby under two months old?
- Is your baby currently in the hospital and needing routine blood tests?
- Have you discussed this study with your baby's care team?
- Are you happy for up to two of your baby's routine blood samples to be used for comparison in this study?
What does participation involve?
If your baby takes part in this study, it's very simple and won't involve any extra procedures for them. Whenever your baby needs a routine full blood count (FBC) blood test as part of their hospital care, the nurses will collect the usual blood sample. From this sample tube, they will take just one or two drops of blood from the lid. These drops will be put into the special HemoScreen device on the ward for analysis. The rest of the blood sample will still go to the main hospital lab for your baby's standard care. Your baby's blood will only be used for this research on up to two separate occasions during their time in hospital. There are no extra visits or follow-up appointments required specifically for this study. The study is expected to run from April 2024 to December 2025.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Harrogate District HospitalApproximateHarrogate, England
Common questions
What is a 'full blood count'?
A full blood count (FBC) is a common blood test that checks different parts of your baby's blood, like red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It helps doctors understand your baby's general health.
Will my baby have extra blood taken for this study?
No, absolutely not. The device only uses a few drops of blood from the sample already taken for your baby's routine care.
Will the results from the new device affect my baby's treatment?
No. The main hospital lab results will still be used to guide your baby's treatment. The results from the new device are just for comparison in the study and won't appear in your baby's medical records.
How many times could my baby's blood be used for this research?
Each baby's blood sample can be included in this research up to two times during their stay in hospital.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the Healthcare Science Innovation Fellowship programme in the UK.
How to find out more
Nuthar Jassam
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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