NCT06769880 · Rush University Medical Center
Use of Bedside Imaging and Community Health Workers for Early Screening and Referral of Pre-symptomatic Stage B Heart Failure in the Emergency Department
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if using point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can increase participant engagement and changes in behavior among adults with risk factors for pre-symptomatic heart failure presenting to the emergency department. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if using point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can increase participant engagement and changes in behavior among adults with risk factors for pre-symptomatic heart failure presenting to the emergency department. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does POCUS increase understanding of heart failure and the likelihood to improve diet, exercise, and follow up? 2. Does POCUS improve diet, exercise, follow up, and self-efficacy at three months post-intervention? Researchers will compare an educational intervention with versus without POCUS to see if POCUS works to improve outcomes. Participants will: Receive either the educational intervention alone or an educational intervention plus POCUS. They will report the difference in their understanding and likelihood to improve diet, exercise, and follow up immediately post-intervention. They will also report changes in diet, exercise, follow up, and self-efficacy at three months post-intervention.
Interventions
OTHER
Ultrasound and Educational Intervention
This will include the educational intervention combined with a point-of-care ultrasound
OTHER
Educational Intervention Alone
This will include only the educational intervention (without ultrasound)
Primary outcome measures
Rate of Primary Care Follow Up
Time frame: 3 Months Post-Intervention
Defined as the presence or absence of a follow up visit with a primary care provider at 3 months
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
- Must be 45 years of age or older
- Must have high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, or obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2)
Exclusion criteria
- Symptoms of acute heart failure (difficulty breathing, leg swelling)
- History of heart failure
- Unable to tolerate an ultrasound examination
- No access to a phone for follow up
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
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 Nov 21, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations