NCT07776704 · Fox Chase Cancer Center
Indirect Calorimetry-Guided Parenteral Nutrition Prescribing in Oncology Patients
What this study is about
This study compares two methods of prescribing parenteral nutrition (PN) in adults with cancer who are unable to meet nutritional needs by taken by mouth or enteral intake.
View original scientific description
This study compares two methods of prescribing parenteral nutrition (PN) in adults with cancer who are unable to meet nutritional needs by oral or enteral intake.
Interventions
DEVICE
Indirect Calorimeter
Q-NRG + metabolic monitor
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Weight-Based Parenteral Nutrition Dosing
Parenteral nutrition dosed using standard weight-based equations.
Primary outcome measures
Percentage of Participants in the Indirect Calorimetry Arm Completing at Least 50% of Scheduled Indirect Calorimetry Measurements
Time frame: Up to 8 weeks
Feasibility will be assessed as the proportion of participants randomized to the indirect calorimetry intervention arm who complete at least 50% of scheduled indirect calorimetry measurements during the 8-week intervention period. Scheduled measurements will occur weekly while inpatient and every 4 weeks while outpatient per protocol.
Participant Acceptability of Indirect Calorimetry Measured by a 5-Point Likert Questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline, Week 4, and Week 8
Acceptability will be assessed using a 7-item participant questionnaire developed for this study evaluating comfort, understanding, satisfaction, and willingness to undergo indirect calorimetry again. Five items are scored on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (Strongly disagree) to 5 (Strongly agree). Higher scores indicate greater acceptability of indirect calorimetry. Acceptability will be summarized using mean questionnaire scores and the percentage of participants reporting agreement or strong agreement with overall acceptability.
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
- Adults aged ≥18 years
- Diagnosis of cancer
- Requirement for PN ≥1 week
- Ability to provide informed consent
- English-speaking
Exclusion criteria
- Hospice enrollment
- Mechanical ventilation
- Chest tube or drain
- Continuous renal replacement therapy
- Supplemental oxygen
Where
- Philadelphia, 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 Aug 20, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations