NCT05750654 · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Effectiveness of Small Phlebotomy Tubes in Reducing Blood Transfusions in Adult Medical Intensive Care Unit and Intermediate Care Unit Patients With Anemia
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of small phlebotomy tubes to reduce RBC transfusions in medical intensive care unit (ICU) and Intermediate care unit (IMU) patients with low hemoglobin compared with standard size tubes, to compare the intervention and the control groups in regards to: ICU length of stay (LOS), ICU mortality, hospital LOS, and hospital mortality and to assess the acceptability of small phlebotomy tubes in adult ICU and IMU patients.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of small phlebotomy tubes to reduce RBC transfusions in medical intensive care unit (ICU) and Intermediate care unit (IMU) patients with low hemoglobin compared with standard size tubes, to compare the intervention and the control groups in regards to: ICU length of stay (LOS), ICU mortality, hospital LOS, and hospital mortality and to assess the acceptability of small phlebotomy tubes in adult ICU and IMU patients.
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
- Admission to the medical ICU or IMU.
- Hemoglobin less than 10 g/dL.
Exclusion criteria
- Clinical bleeding. Defined as any bleeding needing an intervention. An intervention could be an increase in the frequency of hemoglobin monitoring, a transfusion, a procedure, or a consultation intended to prevent or treat bleeding.
- Hemolytic disorder (e.g. sickle cell disease, hereditary spherocytosis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia).
- Bone marrow disorder (e.g. aplastic anemia, leukemia, marrow infiltration disorder, chemotherapy within the last 8 weeks).
- Jehovah's Witnesses.
- Patient is comfort care measures only.
- Refractory shock: Mean arterial blood pressure below 65 mmHg despite maximal doses of 3 vasopressors. Maximal dose of vasopressors are as follows: Norepinephrine 70 mcg/min; vasopressin 0.03 units/min; epinephrine 35 mcg/min; dopamine 20 mcg/kg/min; phenylephrine 350 mcg/min.
- Severe acidosis: pH below 7 in more than one arterial blood gas in the past 24 hours, in the absence of diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Surgical admission diagnosis.
- Current prisoner
Where
- Houston, Texas
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 Sep 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations