NCT06004739 · Mount Sinai Hospital, Canada
Antibiotics for Delirium in Older Adults With No Clear Urinary Tract Infection
(A-DONUT)
What this study is about
Delirium is an acute confusional state that is experienced by many older adults who are admitted to hospital. To treat delirium the underlying cause needs to be identified promptly, but this is challenging. One of the potential causes of delirium is infection.
View original scientific description
Delirium is an acute confusional state that is experienced by many older adults who are admitted to hospital. To treat delirium the underlying cause needs to be identified promptly, but this is challenging. One of the potential causes of delirium is infection. Urine tests show that most patients experiencing delirium have bacteria in their urine, however, bacteria in the urine is common among older adults, and does not automatically indicate an infection is present. As a result it is difficult to know whether a lower urinary tract infection is present as individuals with delirium are frequently unable to report clinical signs of infection - symptoms of pain or discomfort with urination, having to urinate more frequently or pelvic discomfort. Very often, individuals with delirium are treated with antibiotics despite the fact that it is unknown whether antibiotics help to improve delirium in cases where bacteria in the urine is present. This proposed study is a randomized controlled trial that will examine if adults (age 60 or older) with delirium and suspected infection benefit from taking antibiotics.
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
- Age ≥ 60 and admitted to a hospital ward (including rehabilitation hospital);
- Active delirium (defined by CAM: \[1\] inattention AND \[2\] acute and fluctuating level of consciousness, and either \[3\] disorganized thinking OR \[4\] altered mental status; OR physician's diagnosis)
- Less than 24 hours of antibiotics (prior to trial assessment)
- Either pyuria (defined as white blood cells detected on urinalysis or dipstick) or bacteriuria (defined as bacteria growing on urine culture)
Exclusion criteria
- Fever (temperature \> 37.9C or \> 100.2F) in the past 48 hours;
- Signs of lower urinary tract infection symptoms (such as new dysuria) or upper urinary symptoms (such as costovertebral tenderness)
- In the opinion of the treating physician, there is a reason apart from delirium and urine test results to treat with antibiotics (e.g., pneumonia)
- Indwelling urinary catheter for \> 72 hours
- Receipt of an antibiotic where a single dose suffices for the treatment of a UTI (such as Fosfomycin)
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
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 19, 2024 · Source of record for eligibility and locations