NCT04188899 · University of Arizona
Point-of-care Ultrasound in the Assessment of Snake Bite
What this study is about
Early identification of tissue injury from a rattlesnake bite is critical to prevent complications and reduce health care costs. Given the limitations of clinical assessment, there is a need to develop a more objective reproducible, anatomically detailed diagnostic tool for to accurately assess tissue damage and assist with timely administration of antivenom, if needed.
View original scientific description
Early identification of tissue injury from a rattlesnake bite is critical to prevent complications and reduce health care costs. Given the limitations of clinical assessment, there is a need to develop a more objective reproducible, anatomically detailed diagnostic tool for to accurately assess tissue damage and assist with timely administration of antivenom, if needed. Emergency physician performed point-of-care ultrasonography has been shown to be beneficial in the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections. The innovative use of bedside ultrasound technology can provide new information to individualize antivenom treatment and to improve patient outcomes. The objectives of this study is to compare clinical assessment and bedside ultrasound findings in the detection of tissue injury in emergency department patients with rattle snakebite and determine if bedside ultrasound can alter management (antivenom dosing) in emergency department patients with rattle snakebite.
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants in whom ultrasound detected progress of skin changes earlier than physical examination
Time frame: First 10 hours of Emergency Department encounter
Sonographic skin changes
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
- Adult patients (18 years and older)
- Both genders
- Complaint of snake bite
Exclusion criteria
- If they are unwilling to provide informed consent
- Hemodynamically unstable patients (shock respiratory distress, altered mental status, and cardiorespiratory arrest)
- All vulnerable patient populations, e.g., children, pregnant patients, prisoners, and patients unable to verbally consent due to cognitive impairment
Where
- Tucson, Arizona
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 Apr 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations