NCT06399861 · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Humidity in Incubators for Tiny Infants
(HumidITI)
What this study is about
The objective of the study is to assess 2 different initial incubator humidification protocols for infants \<25 weeks' gestation admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The hypothesis is that a higher starting humidity decreases dehydration and results in no difference in survival or morbidity. Higher (90%) and lower (70%) starting humidity will be compared.
View original scientific description
The objective of the study is to assess 2 different initial incubator humidification protocols for infants \<25 weeks' gestation admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The hypothesis is that a higher starting humidity decreases dehydration and results in no difference in survival or morbidity. Higher (90%) and lower (70%) starting humidity will be compared.
Interventions
DEVICE
Higher (90%) starting RH in the incubator with humidity supplementation stopped at day 10
Infants will be provided usual delivery room care and then placed in an incubator on admission to the NICU, receiving starting relative humidity (RH) of 90% in the incubator, which is weaned to 50% by day 8, and humidity supplementation stopped at day 10.
DEVICE
Lower (70%) starting RH in the incubator with humidity supplementation stopped at day 10
Infants will be provided usual delivery room care and then placed in an incubator on admission to the NICU, receiving starting relative humidity (RH) of 70% in the incubator, which is weaned to 50% by day 8, and humidity supplementation stopped at day 10.
DEVICE
Higher (90%) starting RH in the incubator with humidity supplementation stopped at day 28
Infants will be provided usual delivery room care and then placed in an incubator on admission to the NICU, receiving starting relative humidity (RH) of 90% in the incubator, which is weaned to 50% by day 8, and humidity supplementation stopped at day 28.
DEVICE
Lower (70%) starting RH in the incubator with humidity supplementation stopped at day 28
Infants will be provided usual delivery room care and then placed in an incubator on admission to the NICU, receiving starting relative humidity (RH) of 70% in the incubator, which is weaned to 50% by day 8, and humidity supplementation stopped at day 28.
Primary outcome measures
Composite safety score
Time frame: from admission to the NICU through hospital discharge (about 4-5 months)
A single composite safety score will be reported (mortality and 6 morbidities will be assessed to determine this score). The composite score ranges from 0 to 7, with a higher score indicating a better outcome, as listed below: * 0 = Infant does not survive * 1 = Infant survives, has all 6 assessed morbidities * 2 = Infant survives, has 5 assessed morbidities * 3 = Infant survives, has 4 assessed morbidities * 4 = Infant survives, has 3 assessed morbidities * 5 = Infant survives, has 2 assessed morbidities * 6 = Infant survives, has 1 assessed morbidities * 7 = Infant survives, has no assessed morbidities Morbidities assessed: * grade III-IV intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) * surgical necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or focal intestinal perforation (FIP) * grade III bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) * treated retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) * culture-proven late-onset sepsis (LOS) * patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) ligation
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
- Inborn infant of \<25 weeks' gestation admitted to the NICU
Exclusion criteria
- Infants with known congenital skin conditions
- Outborn infants
- Infants with unknown gestational age prior to birth
Where
- Birmingham, Alabama
- San Diego, California
- Columbus, Ohio
- Houston, Texas
- San Antonio, Texas
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 Sep 11, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations