NCT06952933 · Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Psychological Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Resilience in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease
(PTSD in ACHD)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study, entitled "Psychological trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and resilience in adults with congenital heart disease in a large population sample", is to evaluate for exposures during a lifetime with congenital heart disease that may be associated with higher likelihood of developing PTSD.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study, entitled "Psychological trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and resilience in adults with congenital heart disease in a large population sample", is to evaluate for exposures during a lifetime with congenital heart disease that may be associated with higher likelihood of developing PTSD. Primary aim: \- Identify individual patient characteristics (medical, psychosocial, socioeconomic, etc.) that are associated with a diagnosis of PTSD. Secondary aims: * Calculate the prevalence of those meeting PTSD criteria in the ACHD population using the "gold standard" diagnostic clinician interview, while using the same data to validate a PTSD screening self-report survey in the ACHD population. * Determine the role of resilience in ACHD patients using a validated screening survey to assess its protective role toward PTSD. Hypotheses: * There are certain exposures (e.g. post-surgical pain, ICU delirium, bullying due to CHD) that are associated with a higher incidence and odds of meeting PTSD criteria. * "Gold standard" diagnostic interviews will most accurately estimate the prevalence of PTSD in ACHD which has been overestimated on prior screening-based studies, although the scope of the problem is still great. * Patients with a higher resilience score will show an association with a lower risk of PTSD.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Congenital heart disease diagnosis, age \>= 18 years
- Enrolled in CHI registry
- English proficiency for survey completion
- Access to an internet connection. Can be via computer or handheld device.
Exclusion criteria
- Any who opt out
- Age \< 18 years
- No diagnosis of congenital heart disease
- Not enrolled in CHI registry/unable to access Internet
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Lebanon, New Hampshire
- Columbus, Ohio
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations