NCT07772219 · Ohio State University
Restrained vs Gripping String Techniques in Patients Undergoing Cesarean Delivery
What this study is about
This randomly assigned controlled trial will compare two upper-extremity restraint techniques in patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery under neuraxial anesthesia. Participants will be randomly assigned to either standard forearm restraint placement or wrist-level gripping restraint placement.
View original scientific description
This randomized controlled trial will compare two upper-extremity restraint techniques in patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery under neuraxial anesthesia. Participants will be randomly assigned to either standard forearm restraint placement or wrist-level gripping restraint placement. The study will evaluate whether the position of the restraint affects maternal anxiety during and after cesarean delivery. Anxiety will be measured at several perioperative time points using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6). Secondary outcomes include pain, patient satisfaction, physiological measures such as heart rate and blood pressure, postpartum distress and mood, and restraint-related safety events. The study aims to determine whether wrist-level gripping restraints may reduce anxiety and improve the patient experience compared with standard forearm restraints.
Interventions
OTHER
Standard Forearm Restraint
A soft padded restraint is secured circumferentially around the participant's mid-forearm and attached to the arm board during cesarean delivery. This is the current institutional standard of care and is intended to stabilize the arm and limit excessive movement while leaving the hand free.
OTHER
Wrist-Level Gripping Restraint
A soft string restraint is positioned at the participant's wrist during cesarean delivery, allowing the participant to comfortably grasp the restraint in a closed-hand position. The technique stabilizes the upper extremity while permitting continuous hand gripping and maintaining the sterile operative field.
Primary outcome measures
Maternal Anxiety Assessed by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-6 (STAI-6)
Time frame: Preoperative holding area; after spinal/combined spinal-epidural placement; after skin incision; during skin closure; and 2 hours postoperatively in the PACU.
Maternal anxiety will be assessed using the 6-item State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6). Scores range from 20 to 80, with higher scores indicating greater anxiety. STAI-6 scores will be compared between the wrist-level gripping restraint group and the standard forearm restraint group.
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 ≥18 years to 50 years old
- Singleton pregnancy
- Term gestation (≥37 weeks)
- Spinal or combined spinal-epidural anesthesia planned
- Scheduled for elective cesarean delivery
- Ability to provide informed consent in English
Exclusion criteria
- Not receiving neuraxial anesthesia or not scheduled for cesarean delivery
- Preeclampsia
- Documented fetal anomaly/congenital malformations
- Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)
- Unable to provide informed consent in English without interpreting services or personnel
- Elects for skin-to-skin contact prior to suturing
Where
- Columbus, Ohio
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 19, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations