NCT07002294 · University of Pittsburgh
The Effect of SPecialty cAre on Recovery From Cardiac Arrest Trial (the SPARC Trial)
(SPARC)
What this study is about
This randomly assigned clinical trial will determine if adult participants who are in the emergency department after being resuscitated from a cardiac arrest outside of the hospital benefit from care delivered at specialized centers.
View original scientific description
This randomized clinical trial will determine if adult participants who are in the emergency department after being resuscitated from a cardiac arrest outside of the hospital benefit from care delivered at specialized centers. The main question that it will answer is whether transferring participants to a hospital with a specialized cardiac arrest service improves recovery of function after 90 days. Participants will receive all usual medical care, but some participants will be offered transfer to a regional cardiac arrest center and others will be offered care at the closest appropriate hospital. Investigators will interview participants after 90 days to assess their recovery.
Interventions
OTHER
Transfer to specialty care
Interfacility transport and treatment at the specialty care hospital
OTHER
Usual care
Hospitalization and treatment at the closest appropriate facility
Primary outcome measures
Modified Rankin Scale
Time frame: 90 Days post arrest
The Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) is a measure of functional recovery, measured 90 days after cardiac arrest. A Modified Rankin Score (mRS) of 0 corresponds to full functional recovery and a Modified Rankin Score (mRS) of 6 corresponds to death, with progressively worse functional outcomes at higher scores. Intermediate values reflect progressive functional dependence, with higher scores reflecting greater dependence on others.
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
- Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
- Resuscitated from cardiac arrest with palpable pulse in the emergency department
- Treated at one of participating hospital emergency departments
- Age ≥18 years
Exclusion criteria
- Known prior advanced directives or decision to limit critical care
- Known pre-arrest dependent functional status (e.g., living in a skilled nursing facility, hospice or bedbound)
- Arrest in the emergency department \>4 hours after arrival
- Traumatic etiology of arrest
- Known to have opted-out from the SPARC trial
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Related conditions & keywords
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 Aug 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations