NCT07384585 · Laura Beth Kalvas
Feasibility of Light Therapy in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to understand how easy or difficult it is for critically ill children (4-17 years old) to have light therapy while in the pediatric ICU. Participants will have a light meter at their bedside to measure light levels. Each morning, a light box will be placed at their bedside.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to understand how easy or difficult it is for critically ill children (4-17 years old) to have light therapy while in the pediatric ICU. Participants will have a light meter at their bedside to measure light levels. Each morning, a light box will be placed at their bedside. Children, family, and staff will be asked to completed feedback surveys regarding the light therapy. Study participation will continue for a maximum of 5 days.
Interventions
OTHER
Light Therapy
Light therapy will be delivered via a light box for a maximum of 5 days in the pediatric ICU. Light therapy will be initiated 1 to 2 hours following participant's typical wake time, and continue for 3 hours. The light box light intensity is 10,000 lux with high blue light content (5,000 Kelvin). The light box blocks ultraviolet rays. The portable light box will be placed in front or to the side of the child at a distance of 2 feet. The light box can be moved with activity and turned off at any time if requested by the child, family, or staff.
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility of light therapy for children, families, and staff.
Time frame: Maximum of 5 days of light therapy.
Feasibility of light therapy assessed via feedback surveys from children, families, and clinical staff.
Duration of light therapy
Time frame: Maximum of 5 days of light therapy.
Hours of light therapy received per study day.
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
- Anticipated to remain admitted to the study hospital pediatric ICU for additional 48 hours
- English-speaking parent/legally authorized representative available at the bedside
Exclusion criteria
- Patients unable to open their eyes to receive light therapy (Glasgow Coma Scale eye opening score of 1 or neuromuscular blockade)
- Patients with contraindications to light therapy (e.g., migraines, retinal disease, diseases associated with retinal complications, blindness, bipolar disorder, seizure disorder, traumatic brain injury)
- Suspected/identified neglect/abuse, Child Protective Services involvement, or ward of state
- Children receiving palliative/end-of-life care
- Unable to fit light box/cart in patient room
Where
- Columbus, Ohio
Collaborators
Nationwide Children's Hospital
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 May 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations