NCT05671133 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Effectiveness and Implementation of a Clinician Decision Support System to Prevent Suicidal Behaviors
What this study is about
The primary aim of this project are to evaluate a comprehensive, practice-ready, and deployment-focused strategy for improving the prediction and prevention of suicide attempts among a sample of 4,000 patients presenting to an ED with a psychiatric concern. The first aim is to evaluate the effects of providing information about risk of patient suicidal behavior to ED clinicians.
View original scientific description
The primary aim of this project are to evaluate a comprehensive, practice-ready, and deployment-focused strategy for improving the prediction and prevention of suicide attempts among a sample of 4,000 patients presenting to an ED with a psychiatric concern. The first aim is to evaluate the effects of providing information about risk of patient suicidal behavior to ED clinicians. The investigators hypothesize that patients randomly assigned to have their clinician receive their risk score will have a lower rate of suicide attempts during 6-month follow-up and that this effect will be mediated by changes in clinician decision-making.
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 status (≥18 years-old);
- Willing to provide an email address;
- Presentation at the APS
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to understand the study procedures and provide informed consent such as those with gross cognitive impairment (including florid psychosis), intellectual disability, dementia, acute intoxication, or the presence of extremely agitated or violent behavior
- Decisions about inclusion/exclusion criteria will be made by the emergency department providers on duty at the time. These broad inclusion criteria maximize the clinical applicability of obtained results while the exclusion criteria ensure the ethical principle of respect for persons.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Jun 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations