NCT06174272 · Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Transitional Care Program for Fluid Overload in Cirrhosis
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about an intensive monitoring plan (transitional care program) in patients with cirrhosis and excessive swelling that are going to be discharged from the hospital.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about an intensive monitoring plan (transitional care program) in patients with cirrhosis and excessive swelling that are going to be discharged from the hospital. The main question\[s\] it aims to answer are: * How much time and what resources are needed to run such a program * How well do patients follow up with the phone calls, bloodwork, and doctor appointments? * Do the patients enrolled in the program have less need for hospitalization later, less kidney injury, better fluid control, and/or better survival compared to patients that are not in the program? Participants will * Be given a digital scale and a binder with educational material and a log to monitor their weights after discharge from the hospital * Receive a phone call from the study team within 72 hours of discharge and weekly * Be given a follow up appointment with hepatology within 4 weeks of discharge Researchers will compare participants in this program to patients that receive normal care to see if there are differences in need for hospitalization later, kidney injury, fluid control, and/or survival.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Transitional Care Program
Intensive monitoring post discharge for cirrhosis and fluid overload
Primary outcome measures
feasibility of the program
Time frame: all 8 weeks of each participant
how much time does it take to review material and complete phone calls
Number of instances of weight monitoring
Time frame: 8 weeks for each participant
at home monitoring weight
Number of successful phone calls
Time frame: 8 weeks for each participant
weekly phone call with participant
Number of follow up visits
Time frame: 8 weeks for each participant
lab visits, primary care visits, hepatology visits
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
- Patients \> 18 years of age.
- Inpatient at Penn State Health, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
- Diagnosis of cirrhosis.
- Hospitalized with fluid overload (ascites and/or significant anasarca/edema) requiring diuretic therapy.
- English speaking
Exclusion criteria
- Placement of a TIPS.
- Ascites from an etiology other than cirrhosis, such as malignancy, heart failure, pancreatitis, nephrotic syndrome.
- Non-English speaking
Where
- Hershey, Pennsylvania
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 Mar 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations