Pharmacodynamic Analysis of the HaemOdynamic Effects of a Standard Fluid BolUS
This study is investigating how giving fluids through a drip can help patients who are in 'shock' – which means their heart isn't pumping enough blood. Often, doctors give a quick shot of fluid (called a bolus) to try and improve blood flow. However, we know this treatment doesn't always work perfectly, and sometimes only part of the fluid helps. Also, the benefits can wear off quite quickly. This research aims to understand two main things: how much of the fluid given actually helps the heart pump more blood, and how long those helpful effects last. By understanding this better, doctors can make more informed decisions about fluid treatment, hopefully leading to better care for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone is in 'shock,' it means their heart isn't pumping enough blood around their body. This can be very serious. One of the first things doctors often try to do is give fluids through a drip, which is called a 'fluid challenge' or 'volume expansion.' Imagine your heart as a pump; the idea is that giving extra fluid helps fill the pump better, so it can push more blood out.
However, this treatment isn't always straightforward. Sometimes, not all the fluid given actually helps improve the heart's pumping. Also, the good effects of the fluid can wear off quite quickly after it's been given. Doctors don't currently have a clear picture of exactly how much of the fluid helps and how long those benefits last in different patients.
This study aims to get a clearer understanding of these two points. Researchers want to measure how much of the fluid really makes a difference to the heart's pumping action, and how long that improvement lasts after the fluids are given. By learning this, doctors can hopefully give fluid treatment more effectively, meaning patients get the right amount of fluid at the right time, which could lead to better outcomes.
Key takeaways
- Study looks at how fluids help people in 'shock'.
- Aims to understand how much fluid really helps the heart.
- Investigates how long fluid effects last.
- No new treatments or risks for participants.
- Information will help improve future patient care.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you must be at least 18 years old and currently in intensive care in hospital. You would need to already have some equipment in place that monitors your heart, specifically how much blood it's pumping out each minute. Also, the doctors looking after you must have already decided that you need a fluid challenge as part of your treatment.
You would not be able to join if you are pregnant, or if you or your family (if you are unable to decide for yourself) do not wish to take part. Also, if your doctors need to make other big changes to your treatment at the same time as the fluid challenge, you wouldn't be able to participate. This is because these other changes might make it harder to see the true effects of the fluids we are studying.
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 or older?
- Are you currently in intensive care?
- Do you already have heart monitoring equipment in place?
- Has your doctor already decided you need a fluid challenge?
- Are you, or your family, comfortable with you taking part?
What does participation involve?
If you take part in this study, you won't receive any different treatments than you would normally. The study simply involves carefully observing and measuring how your body responds when your doctors give you a standard fluid challenge. This means the existing monitoring equipment you already have in place for your heart will be used to see how your heart’s pumping action changes. This will happen during and after the fluid challenge that your doctors have already planned for you. There are no extra hospital visits or follow-up appointments specifically for the study. The total duration of your participation would be limited to the time taken for your existing medical team to administer the fluid and for the study team to collect the measurements, which would be part of your routine care.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Bicêtre HospitalVerified postcodeLe Kremlin-Bicêtre, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'shock'?
'Shock' is a serious condition where your heart isn't pumping enough blood and oxygen around your body, which can be very dangerous for your organs. Doctors try to treat it quickly to help your body recover.
What is a 'fluid challenge'?
A fluid challenge is when doctors give you a quick amount of fluid through a drip into your vein. They do this to see if it helps your heart pump more blood.
Will I get extra treatment if I join?
No, you won't get any extra treatment. The study only involves carefully watching how your body responds to the fluid challenge that your doctors have already decided you need.
Are there any risks to me?
Because the study doesn't involve any extra tests or different treatments, there are no additional risks to you beyond the medical care you would already be receiving.
Can I change my mind about taking part?
Yes, you can decide to stop taking part at any time, and it won't affect the medical care you receive in any way.
How to find out more
Xavier Monnet, MD, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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