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Wright B, Bell KJ, Blackwell JE, Teige C, Mandefield L, Wang HI, Welch C, Scantlebury A, Watson J, McMillan D, Standley E, Attwell L, Carrick H, Taylor A, Taylor O, Hodkinson R, Edwards H, Pearson H, Parrott S, Marshall D, Varley D, Hargate R, Mclaren A, Elizabeth Hewitt C. Impact of Social Stories on social and emotional health of autism spectrum primary school children: the ASSSIST2 RCT with economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2024; 28:1-121. [PMID: 39207130 DOI: 10.3310/jbtm8017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Differences in the way autistic children experience the world can contribute to anxiety and stress. Carol Gray's Social Stories™ are a highly personalised intervention to support children by providing social information about specific situations in an individual story. Objectives This randomised controlled trial aimed to establish whether Social Stories are clinically effective and cost-effective in improving social responsiveness and social and emotional health in children on the autism spectrum in schools. Design A multisite pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial comparing Social Stories with care as usual. Setting Eighty-seven schools (clusters) across Yorkshire and the Humber. Participants Two hundred and forty-nine children were randomised via a bespoke system hosted at York Trials Unit (129 Social Stories and 120 care as usual). Recruitment was completed in May 2021. Participants were children aged 4-11 years with a diagnosis of autism, alongside teachers, interventionists and caregivers. Recruitment was via schools, NHS trusts, support groups and local publicity. Intervention The intervention included training for educational professionals and caregivers covering psychoeducation and implementation of Social Stories. Stories were written around contextualised goals around the child's need for social information. Interventionists read the Social Story™ with the child at least six times over 4 weeks during school. Main outcome measure The primary outcome was the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 completed by teachers at 6 months (the primary end point), which measures social awareness, cognition, communication and behaviour. Data were collected from caregivers and educational professionals at 6 weeks and 6 months through questionnaires. Blinding of participants was not possible. Results At 6 months, the estimated difference in expected teacher-reported Social Responsiveness Scale-2 T-score (the primary end point) was -1.61 (95% confidence interval -4.18 to 0.96, p = 0.220), slightly favouring the intervention group. The estimated differences for the parent-reported secondary outcomes at 6 months were small and generally favoured the control group except the measure of children's quality-adjusted life-year (+ 0.001, 95% confidence interval -0.032 to 0.035) and parental stress (-1.49, 95% confidence interval -5.43 to 2.46, p = 0.460), which favoured the intervention group. Children in the intervention group met their individual goals more frequently than children who received usual care alone (0.97 confidence interval 0.21 to 1.73, p = 0.012). The intervention is likely to save small costs (-£191 per child, 95% confidence interval -767.7 to 337.7) and maintain a similar quality of life compared to usual care. The probability of Social Stories being a preferred option is 75% if the society is willing to pay £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained. Limitations include considerable disruptions during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Conclusion Social Stories are used in schools and represent a low-cost intervention. There is no clinically evident impact on social responsiveness, anxiety and/or depression, parental stress or general health. Benefits were observed for specific behavioural goals as assessed by the teacher, and Social Stories may serve as a useful tool for facilitating dialogue between children and school staff to address specific behavioural challenges. Usage should be at the school's discretion. Future work Given the uncertainty of the results in light of coronavirus disease 2019, further work to establish the impact of Social Stories is merited. Trial registration This trial is registered as ISRCTN11634810. Funding This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: 16/111/91) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 28, No. 39. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Catarina Teige
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Leah Attwell
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | - Hayley Carrick
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | - Amelia Taylor
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | | | | | - Hannah Edwards
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | - Hannah Pearson
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | | | | | | | - Rebecca Hargate
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire, UK
| | - Ann Mclaren
- Patient and public involvement representative
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Coleman A. Reducing falls among residents of retirement homes: A DNP project. Nurse Pract 2024; 49:39-47. [PMID: 38530379 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000000000000161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Falls among older adults (OAs) living in retirement homes (RHs) in Canada are a major public health concern due to high morbidity and mortality as well as significant healthcare expenditures. This quality improvement (QI) initiative, conducted for the author's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project, aimed to decrease fall rates and ED transfers related to falls among OAs in six RHs across the Greater Toronto Area in Ontario, Canada through a multipart intervention with two primary goals. First, the project aimed to facilitate RH NPs' implementation of a comprehensive fall risk assessment and fall prevention strategy in their practice by incorporating the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries (STEADI) toolkit into their armamentarium. Second, it sought to enhance the knowledge of the RHs' registered practical nurses (RPNs), personal support workers (PSWs), and unregulated care providers (UCPs) in assessing fall risk and incorporating fall prevention strategies in their daily practice. By improving NP, RPN, PSW, and UCP knowledge and increasing (by 20%) RPN, PSW, and UCP use of fall prevention strategies, this QI initiative successfully reduced fall rates in the RHs by 40.4%, with no falls requiring transfer to the ED, in the postintervention period. The results of this project highlight the need for an interdisciplinary approach to fall risk reduction in RHs that includes implementation of multifactorial intervention strategies as well as effective organizational policies and procedures for maximum impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alanna Coleman
- Alanna Coleman is an adjunct assistant professor with the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio
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Nickolls BJ, Relton C, Hemkens L, Zwarenstein M, Eldridge S, McCall SJ, Griffin XL, Sohanpal R, Verkooijen HM, Maguire JL, McCord KA. Randomised trials conducted using cohorts: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e075601. [PMID: 38458814 PMCID: PMC10928784 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cohort studies generate and collect longitudinal data for a variety of research purposes. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) increasingly use cohort studies as data infrastructures to help identify and recruit trial participants and assess outcomes. OBJECTIVE To examine the extent, range and nature of research using cohorts for RCTs and describe the varied definitions and conceptual boundaries for RCTs using cohorts. DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES Searches were undertaken in January 2021 in MEDLINE (Ovid) and EBM Reviews-Cochrane Methodology Registry (Final issue, third Quarter 2012). ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Reports published between January 2007 and December 2021 of (a) cohorts used or planned to be used, to conduct RCTs, or (b) RCTs which use cohorts to recruit participants and/or collect trial outcomes, or (c) methodological studies discussing the use of cohorts for RCTs. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data were extracted on the condition being studied, age group, setting, country/continent, intervention(s) and comparators planned or received, unit of randomisation, timing of randomisation, approach to informed consent, study design and terminology. RESULTS A total of 175 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. We identified 61 protocols, 9 descriptions of stand-alone cohorts intended to be used for future RCTs, 39 RCTs using cohorts and 34 methodological papers.The use and scope of this approach is growing. The thematics of study are far-ranging, including population health, oncology, mental and behavioural disorders, and musculoskeletal conditions.Authors reported that this approach can lead to more efficient recruitment, more representative samples, and lessen disappointment bias and crossovers. CONCLUSION This review outlines the development of cohorts to conduct RCTs including the range of use and innovative changes and adaptations. Inconsistencies in the use of terminology and concepts are highlighted. Guidance now needs to be developed to support the design and reporting of RCTs conducted using cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley Jane Nickolls
- Centre for Evaluation and Methods, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Clare Relton
- Centre for Evaluation and Methods, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Lars Hemkens
- Research Center for Clinical Neuroimmunology and Neuroscience Basel (RC2NB), University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Meta-Research Innovation Center at Stanford (METRICS), Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Meta-Research Innovation Center Berlin (METRICS-B), Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Merrick Zwarenstein
- Department of Family Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sandra Eldridge
- Centre for Evaluation and Methods, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stephen J McCall
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Clinical Trials Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Center for Research on Population and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Ras Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Xavier Luke Griffin
- Bone and Joint Health, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Barts Health NHS Trust, Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ratna Sohanpal
- Centre for Primary Care, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Helena M Verkooijen
- University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jonathon L Maguire
- University of Toronto Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Mansi MK, Chockalingam N, Chatzistergos PE. The enhanced paper grip test can substantially improve community screening for the risk of falling. Gait Posture 2024; 108:157-163. [PMID: 38091629 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lower-limb strength measures can enhance falls risk assessment but due to the lack of clinically applicable methods, such measures are not included in current screening. The enhanced paper grip test (EPGT) is a simple-to-use and cost-effective test that could fill this gap. However, its outcome measure (EPGT force) has not yet been directly linked to the risk of falling. RESEARCH QUESTION Is the EPGT a good candidate for falls risk screening in older people in the community? METHODS Seventy-one older people living independently in the community were recruited for this prospective observational study (median age 69 y, range 65y-79y). Lower-limb and whole-body strength were assessed at baseline using the EPGT and a standardised hand-grip method respectively. Incident falls were recorded monthly for a year through follow-up telephone conversations. The capacity of individual strength measures to predict falls and to enhance an established falls risk assessment tool (FRAT) commonly used by UK's national health service (NHS) was assessed using binomial logistic regression. The analysis was repeated for the subset of participants without history of falling at baseline (prediction of first-ever falls). RESULTS Increased EPGT force and increased symmetry in strength between limbs were significantly associated with reduced risk of falling. Compared to the NHS-FRAT, the EPGT correctly classified more people (73% vs 69%), it achieved higher sensitivity (56% vs 26%) and higher negative predictive value (76% vs 68%). Complementing the NHS-FRAT with the EPGT produced a more comprehensive model that correctly classified 91% of participants and achieved 98% specificity, 81% sensitivity, 89% negative and 96% positive predictive value. Replacing the EPGT with hand-grip strength consistently undermined prediction accuracy. The EPGT remained highly accurate when focused on the prediction of first-ever falls. SIGNIFICANCE The EPGT can substantially enhance falls screening in the community. These results can also inform effective personalised strength exercise interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud K Mansi
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, School of Health, Science and Wellbeing, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Nachiappan Chockalingam
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, School of Health, Science and Wellbeing, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Panagiotis E Chatzistergos
- Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies, School of Health, Science and Wellbeing, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
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Ling X, Gabrio A, Mason A, Baio G. A Scoping Review of Item-Level Missing Data in Within-Trial Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2022; 25:1654-1662. [PMID: 35341690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2022.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) alongside randomized controlled trials often relies on self-reported multi-item questionnaires that are invariably prone to missing item-level data. The purpose of this study is to review how missing multi-item questionnaire data are handled in trial-based CEAs. METHODS We searched the National Institute for Health Research journals to identify within-trial CEAs published between January 2016 and April 2021 using multi-item instruments to collect costs and quality of life (QOL) data. Information on missing data handling and methods, with a focus on the level and type of imputation, was extracted. RESULTS A total of 87 trial-based CEAs were included in the review. Complete case analysis or available case analysis and multiple imputation (MI) were the most popular methods, selected by similar numbers of studies, to handle missing costs and QOL in base-case analysis. Nevertheless, complete case analysis or available case analysis dominated sensitivity analysis. Once imputation was chosen, missing costs were widely imputed at item-level via MI, whereas missing QOL was usually imputed at the more aggregated time point level during the follow-up via MI. CONCLUSIONS Missing costs and QOL tend to be imputed at different levels of missingness in current CEAs alongside randomized controlled trials. Given the limited information provided by included studies, the impact of applying different imputation methods at different levels of aggregation on CEA decision making remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Ling
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, England, UK.
| | - Andrea Gabrio
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Limburg, The Netherlands
| | - Alexina Mason
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England, UK
| | - Gianluca Baio
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, England, UK
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Fowler Davis S, Farndon L, Harrop D, Nield L, Manson J, Lawrence J, Tang S, Pownall S, Elliott J, Charlesworth L, Hindle L. A rapid review and expert identification of the Allied Health Professions’ interventions as a contribution to public health outcomes. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2021; 2:100067. [PMID: 36101594 PMCID: PMC9461364 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2020.100067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Futrell EE, Roberts D, Toole E. The effects of intrinsic foot muscle strengthening on functional mobility in older adults: A systematic review. J Am Geriatr Soc 2021; 70:531-540. [PMID: 34716700 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Weakness and disuse of intrinsic foot muscles contributes to dysfunction in foot and toe alignment and sensory input, which may lead to instability and falls in older adults. The aim of this systematic review was to report the effects of intrinsic foot muscle strengthening (IFMS) interventions on functional mobility in adults aged ≥65 years. METHODS A systematic review was performed with searches from December 2019-February 2021 using MEDLINE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Rehab and Sports Medicine Source, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Additional sources were sought using reference scanning. Eligible sources analyzed adults aged ≥65 years (n = 1674) who were ambulatory, used a functional mobility outcome measure, and contained foot and ankle interventions that included IFMS. Literature studies regarding neurological, vestibular, cognitive, amputation, or post-surgical conditions were excluded. Studies that did not specify intrinsic foot muscle involvement were excluded. Two authors extracted relevant studies and appraised them using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS A total of 1420 articles were screened for relevance, and 16 were extracted. Five additional sources were obtained through reference scanning. Nine articles were eligible for review. PEDro scores ranged from 3 to 7 (out of 10), indicating "fair" quality of evidence. Heterogeneity of methods and data did not allow for statistical comparison. Themes extracted from sources were types of intrinsic foot strengthening interventions and parameters; outcomes on falls, balance, functional mobility; and subjective reports regarding functional mobility. CONCLUSION Evidence reviewed was of fair quality. IFMS interventions contributed to improvements in strength, balance, mobility, and possibly reduced fall risk. There was little effect on gait. Subjective reports indicate a possible mechanism for improved mobility may be from increased proprioception and sensation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dawn Roberts
- Springfield College, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eric Toole
- Springfield College, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
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Kwon J, Lee Y, Young T, Squires H, Harris J. Qualitative research to inform economic modelling: a case study in older people's views on implementing the NICE falls prevention guideline. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:1020. [PMID: 34583685 PMCID: PMC8479997 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07056-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High prevalence of falls among older persons makes falls prevention a public health priority. Yet community-based falls prevention face complexity in implementation and any commissioning strategy should be subject to economic evaluation to ensure cost-effective use of healthcare resources. The study aims to capture the views of older people on implementing the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline on community-based falls prevention and explore how the qualitative data can be used to inform commissioning strategies and conceptual modelling of falls prevention economic evaluation in the local area of Sheffield. Methods Focus group and interview participants (n = 27) were recruited from Sheffield, England, and comprised falls prevention service users and eligible non-users of varying falls risks. Topics concerned key components of the NICE-recommended falls prevention pathway, including falls risk screening, multifactorial risk assessment and treatment uptake and adherence. Views on other topics concerning falls prevention were also invited. Framework analysis was applied for data analysis, involving data familiarisation, identifying themes, indexing, charting and mapping and interpretation. The qualitative data were mapped to three frameworks: (1) facilitators and barriers to implementing the NICE-recommended pathway and contextual factors; (2) intervention-related causal mechanisms for formulating commissioning strategies spanning context, priority setting, need, supply and demand; and (3) methodological and evaluative challenges for public health economic modelling. Results Two cross-component factors were identified: health motives of older persons; and professional competence. Participants highlighted the need for intersectoral approaches and prioritising the vulnerable groups. The local commissioning strategy should consider the socioeconomic, linguistic, geographical, legal and cultural contexts, priority setting challenges, supply-side mechanisms spanning provider, organisation, funding and policy (including intersectoral) and health and non-health demand motives. Methodological and evaluative challenges identified included: incorporating non-health outcomes and societal intervention costs; considering dynamic complexity; considering social determinants of health; and conducting equity analyses. Conclusions Holistic qualitative research can inform how commissioned falls prevention pathways can be feasible and effective. Qualitative data can inform commissioning strategies and conceptual modelling for economic evaluations of falls prevention and other geriatric interventions. This would improve the structural validity of quantitative models used to inform geriatric public health policies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-021-07056-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kwon
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Regent Court (ScHARR), 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, England, S1 4DA.
| | - Yujin Lee
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, England, CV4 7AL
| | - Tracey Young
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Regent Court (ScHARR), 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, England, S1 4DA
| | - Hazel Squires
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Regent Court (ScHARR), 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, England, S1 4DA
| | - Janet Harris
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Regent Court (ScHARR), 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, England, S1 4DA
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Cockayne S, Pighills A, Adamson J, Fairhurst C, Crossland S, Drummond A, Hewitt CE, Rodgers S, Ronaldson SJ, McCaffery J, Whiteside K, Scantlebury A, Robinson-Smith L, Cochrane A, Lamb SE, Boyes S, Gilbody S, Relton C, Torgerson DJ. Home environmental assessments and modification delivered by occupational therapists to reduce falls in people aged 65 years and over: the OTIS RCT. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-118. [PMID: 34254934 PMCID: PMC8287374 DOI: 10.3310/hta25460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls and fall-related fractures are highly prevalent among older people and are a major contributor to morbidity and costs to individuals and society. Only one small pilot trial has evaluated the effectiveness of a home hazard assessment and environmental modification in the UK. This trial reported a reduction in falls as a secondary outcome, and no economic evaluation was undertaken. Therefore, the results need to be confirmed and a cost-effectiveness analysis needs to be undertaken. OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a home hazard assessment and environmental modification delivered by occupational therapists for preventing falls among community-dwelling people aged ≥ 65 years who are at risk of falling, relative to usual care. DESIGN This was a pragmatic, multicentre, modified cohort randomised controlled trial with an economic evaluation and a qualitative study. SETTING Eight NHS trusts in primary and secondary care in England. PARTICIPANTS In total, 1331 participants were randomised (intervention group, n = 430; usual-care group, n = 901) via a secure, remote service. Blinding was not possible. INTERVENTIONS All participants received a falls prevention leaflet and routine care from their general practitioner. The intervention group were additionally offered one home environmental assessment and modifications recommended or provided to identify and manage personal fall-related hazards, delivered by an occupational therapist. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the number of falls per participant during the 12 months from randomisation. The secondary outcomes were the proportion of fallers and multiple fallers, time to fall, fear of falling, fracture rate, health-related quality of life and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS The primary analysis included all 1331 randomised participants and indicated weak evidence of a difference in fall rate between the two groups, with an increase in the intervention group relative to usual care (adjusted incidence rate ratio 1.17, 95% confidence interval 0.99 to 1.38; p = 0.07). A similar proportion of participants in the intervention group (57.0%) and the usual-care group (56.2%) reported at least one fall over 12 months. There were no differences in any of the secondary outcomes. The base-case cost-effectiveness analysis from an NHS and Personal Social Services perspective found that, on average per participant, the intervention was associated with additional costs (£18.78, 95% confidence interval £16.33 to £21.24), but was less effective (mean quality-adjusted life-year loss -0.0042, 95% confidence interval -0.0041 to -0.0043). Sensitivity analyses demonstrated uncertainty in these findings. No serious, related adverse events were reported. The intervention was largely delivered as intended, but recommendations were followed to a varying degree. LIMITATIONS Outcome data were self-reported by participants, which may have led to inaccuracies in the reported falls data. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that an occupational therapist-delivered home assessment and modification reduced falls in this population of community-dwelling participants aged ≥ 65 years deemed at risk of falling. The intervention was more expensive and less effective than usual care, and therefore it does not provide a cost-effective alternative to usual care. FUTURE WORK An evaluation of falls prevention advice in a higher-risk population, perhaps those previously hospitalised for a fall, or given by other professional staff could be justified. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN22202133. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 46. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Cockayne
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Alison Pighills
- Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation, Queensland Health, Mackay Base Hospital, Mackay, QLD, Australia
- Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Joy Adamson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Caroline Fairhurst
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Avril Drummond
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Catherine E Hewitt
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sara Rodgers
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sarah J Ronaldson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jennifer McCaffery
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Katie Whiteside
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Lyn Robinson-Smith
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Ann Cochrane
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sarah E Lamb
- Institute of Health Research, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Sophie Boyes
- York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, York, UK
| | - Simon Gilbody
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Clare Relton
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - David J Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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Kwakkenbos L, Imran M, McCall SJ, McCord KA, Fröbert O, Hemkens LG, Zwarenstein M, Relton C, Rice DB, Langan SM, Benchimol EI, Thabane L, Campbell MK, Sampson M, Erlinge D, Verkooijen HM, Moher D, Boutron I, Ravaud P, Nicholl J, Uher R, Sauvé M, Fletcher J, Torgerson D, Gale C, Juszczak E, Thombs BD. CONSORT extension for the reporting of randomised controlled trials conducted using cohorts and routinely collected data (CONSORT-ROUTINE): checklist with explanation and elaboration. BMJ 2021; 373:n857. [PMID: 33926904 PMCID: PMC8082311 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.n857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Kwakkenbos
- Behavioural Science Institute, Clinical Psychology, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Mahrukh Imran
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - Stephen J McCall
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit Clinical Trials Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Center for Research on Population and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Ras Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Kimberly A McCord
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ole Fröbert
- Örebro University, Faculty of Health, Department of Cardiology, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Lars G Hemkens
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Meta-Research Innovation Center at Stanford (METRICS), Stanford University, Palo Alto, USA
- Meta-Research Innovation Centre Berlin (METRIC-B), Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Merrick Zwarenstein
- Department of Family Medicine, Western University, London, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Canada
| | - Clare Relton
- Centre for Clinical Trials and Methodology, Barts Institute of Population Health Science, Queen Mary University, London, UK
| | - Danielle B Rice
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sinéad M Langan
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Eric I Benchimol
- ICES, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and Child Health Evaluative Sciences, SickKids Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Margaret Sampson
- Library Services, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David Erlinge
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Helena M Verkooijen
- University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
- University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - David Moher
- Centre for Journalology, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boutron
- Université de Paris, Centre of Research Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Inserm, INRA, Paris, France
- Centre d'Épidémiologie Clinique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Hôtel Dieu, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Ravaud
- Université de Paris, Centre of Research Epidemiology and Statistics (CRESS), Inserm, INRA, Paris, France
- Centre d'Épidémiologie Clinique, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Hôtel Dieu, Paris, France
| | - Jon Nicholl
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Rudolf Uher
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Maureen Sauvé
- Scleroderma Society of Ontario, Hamilton, Canada
- Scleroderma Canada, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - David Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Chris Gale
- Neonatal Medicine, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster campus, London, UK
| | - Edmund Juszczak
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit Clinical Trials Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, UK
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada
- Departments of Psychiatry; Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health; Medicine; and Educational and Counselling Psychology; and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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11
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Vickers AJ, Vertosick EA, Carlsson SV, Ehdaie B, Kim SYH. Patient accrual and understanding of informed consent in a two-stage consent design. Clin Trials 2021; 18:377-382. [PMID: 33530713 DOI: 10.1177/1740774520988500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously introduced the concept of "two-stage" (or "just-in-time") informed consent for randomized trials with usual care control. We argued that conducting consent in two stages-splitting information about research procedures from information about the experimental intervention-would reduce the decisional anxiety, confusion, and information overload commonly associated with informed consent. We implemented two-stage consent in a low-stakes randomized trial of a mindfulness meditation intervention for procedural distress in patients undergoing prostate biopsy. Here, we report accrual rates and patient understanding of the consent process. METHODS Patients approached for consent for the biopsy trial were asked to complete the standard "Quality of Informed Consent" questionnaire to assess their knowledge and understanding of the trial. RESULTS Accrual was excellent with 108 of 110 (98%) patients approached for consent signing first-stage consent. All 51 patients randomized to the experimental arm and who later presented for biopsy signed second-stage consent and received the mindfulness intervention. Quality of Informed Consent data were available for 48 patients assigned to the mindfulness treatment arm and 44 controls. The mean Quality of Informed Consent score was similar in the meditation and control arms with and overall mean of 75 (95% confidence interval = 74-76) for the knowledge section and 86 (95% confidence interval = 81-90) for understanding, comparable to the normative scores of 80 and 88. On further analysis and patient interview, two of the Quality of Informed Consent questions were found to be misleading in the context of a two-stage consent study for a mindfulness intervention. Excluding these questions increased knowledge scores to 88 (95% confidence interval = 87-90). CONCLUSION We found promising data that two-stage consent facilitated accrual without compromising patient understanding of randomized trials or compliance with allocated treatment. Further research is needed incorporating randomized comparison of two-stage consent to standard consent approaches, measuring patient anxiety and distress as an outcome, using suitable modifications to the Quality of Informed Consent questionnaire and trials with higher stakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Vickers
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily A Vertosick
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sigrid V Carlsson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Surgery (Urology Service), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Urology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Behfar Ehdaie
- Department of Surgery (Urology Service), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott Y H Kim
- Department of Bioethics, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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12
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Systematic causality mapping of factors leading to accidental falls of older adults. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2020; 1:100045. [PMID: 36101694 PMCID: PMC9461379 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2020.100045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction According to WHO’s statistical evidence, accidental falls are the second leading causes of death worldwide. This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aims to provide a holistic view of risk factors and unfold the missing or less addressed but crucial factors that lead to accidental falls of the older adults. It also intends to profile the risk factors at different levels, which helps exhibit the level of consistency relationship between various risk factors and falls. Study design Systematic literature review. Methods A systematic review on the risk factors leading to accidental falls of older adults by retrieving English journal papers published starting from 1980 was conducted on April 2018. A method of literature synthesis and causal mapping was adopted to aggregate those fall-leading factors into macro variables and a coherent causal tracing network was thereby built, which can reflect not only the causal relationship of various macro variables but also the “consistency of agreement” between macro variables and falls of the older adults. Results A hypothesized causal relationship diagram of 19 aggregated macro variables and their 31 causal relationship suggested by the observational evidences is demonstrated. The consistency relationship between macro variables and elderly accidental fall are summarized and demonstrated. Our analysis reveals that “Time”, “Season” and “Weather” are three less-studied factors in the literature. In our comprehensive analysis, our study also indicates neglected countries and senior populations such as Africa and Oceania, which requires more attention from the research community and global funding agencies. It is found that major quantitative tools focus on the traditional statistical analysis. Conclusion With the accelerated aging and increase of longevity worldwide, national and regional policies, and public health programs to provide adequate care services for the older people are crucially needed in both industrialized and developing countries. Evidences identified in the research are valuable inputs for policy design and decision makers of different stakeholders and prevention design of risk factors for falls in the older adults. The categorization of research methods in different literature also suggests that more quantitative approaches including simulation, optimization in operational research, and maybe machine learning are needed to enrich the research paradigm. We suggest researchers to consider using our presented causal map and the way of building it and explore the possibility of extending this framework to uncover more research topics in health-related research. Find less addressed but important fall-leading factors for the older adults. Apply a systematic causal mapping method for synthetizing known factors. Profile fall-leading factors in the older adults at different levels. Identify the level of consistency for those relationships of risk factors to fall. Build a framework containing all causal relationships of key fall-causing factors.
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13
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Scantlebury A, Cockayne S, Fairhurst C, Rodgers S, Torgerson D, Hewitt C, Adamson J. Qualitative research to inform hypothesis testing for fidelity-based sub-group analysis in clinical trials: lessons learnt from the process evaluation of a multifaceted podiatry intervention for falls prevention. Trials 2020; 21:348. [PMID: 32317024 PMCID: PMC7171824 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04274-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ensuring fidelity to complex interventions is a challenge when conducting pragmatic randomised controlled trials. We explore fidelity through a qualitative process evaluation, which was conducted alongside a pragmatic, multicentre, two-arm cohort randomised controlled trial: the REFORM (Reducing Falls with Orthoses and a Multifaceted podiatry intervention) trial. The paper aims, through a qualitative process evaluation, to explore some of the factors that may have affected the delivery of the REFORM intervention and highlight how project-specific fidelity can be assessed using a truly mixed-methods approach when informed by qualitative insights. Design Semi-structured qualitative interviews carried out as part of a process evaluation. Interviews were analysed thematically. Setting Seven NHS trusts in the UK and a University podiatry school in Ireland. Interviews were undertaken face-to-face or over the telephone. Participants Twenty-one REFORM trial participants and 14 podiatrists who delivered the REFORM intervention. Results Factors affecting fidelity included: how similar the intervention was to routine practice; the challenges of delivering a multifaceted intervention to a heterogeneous older population; and practical issues with delivery such as time and training. Trial participants’ views of the intervention, whether falls prevention is a personal priority, their experience of being part of a trial and individual factors such as medical conditions may also have affected intervention fidelity. Conclusions Our process evaluation highlighted factors that were perceived to have affected the fidelity of the REFORM intervention and in doing so demonstrates the importance of considering fidelity when designing and evaluating pragmatic trials. We propose a number of recommendations of how important project-specific insights from qualitative work can be incorporated into the design of fidelity measurement of future trials, which build on existing conceptual fidelity frameworks. In particular, we encourage adopting a mixed-methods approach whereby qualitative insights can be used to suggest ways to enhance quantitative data collection facilitating integration through hypothesis generation, hypothesis testing and seeking explanation for trial findings. This will provide a framework of enabling measures of fidelity to be incorporated into the understanding of trial results which has been relatively neglected by existing literature. Trial registration ISRCTN Registry: ISRCTN68240461. Registered on 01/07/2011.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arabella Scantlebury
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sarah Cockayne
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Caroline Fairhurst
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sara Rodgers
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - David Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Joy Adamson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
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14
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Rosenblatt NJ, Girgis C, Avalos M, Fleischer AE, Crews RT. The Role of the Podiatrist in Assessing and Reducing Fall Risk: An Updated Review. Clin Podiatr Med Surg 2020; 37:327-369. [PMID: 32146988 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpm.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Falls present a tremendous challenge to health care systems. This article reviews the literature from the previous 5 years (2014-2019) in terms of methods to assess fall risk and potential steps that can be taken to reduce fall risk for patients visiting podiatric clinics. With regard to assessing fall risk, we discuss the role of a thorough medical history and podiatric assessments of foot problems and deformities that can be performed in the clinic. With regard to fall prevention we consider the role of shoe modification, exercise, pain relief, surgical interventions, and referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah J Rosenblatt
- Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine's Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR), 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA.
| | - Christopher Girgis
- Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine's Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR), 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Marco Avalos
- Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine's Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR), 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Adam E Fleischer
- Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine's Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR), 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Ryan T Crews
- Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine's Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR), 3333 Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
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15
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Ximenes MAM, Fontenele NÂO, Bastos IB, Macêdo TS, Galindo Neto NM, Caetano JÁ, Barros LM. Construção e validação de conteúdo de cartilha educativa para prevenção de quedas no hospital. ACTA PAUL ENFERM 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-0194201900059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Objetivo Construir e validar cartilha educativa para prevenção de quedas no hospital. Métodos Estudo metodológico desenvolvido a partir da construção, validação e avaliação da cartilha por 22 enfermeiros e 22 pacientes internados em clínica médica. Para a validação com juízes, avaliou-se objetivo, estrutura/apresentação e relevância do material e, na avaliação com pacientes, aplicou-se o instrumento Suitability Assesment of Materials (SAM). Utilizou-se o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) para análise de cada etapa da validação, considerando válido os iguais ou superiores a 0,80. Resultados A cartilha intitulada “Cuidados para não cair nessa” é composta por 20 páginas. Na validação de conteúdo, os profissionais atribuíram o IVC global de 1,0 para objetivo, estrutura/apresentação e relevância do material. Na avaliação dos pacientes, o IVC global da cartilha foi de 0,98. Conclusão A cartilha educativa é considerada válida quanto ao conteúdo e compreensível pelos pacientes de forma que possui utilização viável na educação em saúde para prevenção de quedas no hospital.
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16
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Wylie G, Torrens C, Campbell P, Frost H, Gordon AL, Menz HB, Skelton DA, Sullivan F, Witham MD, Morris J. Podiatry interventions to prevent falls in older people: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Age Ageing 2019; 48:327-336. [PMID: 30615052 PMCID: PMC6503946 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afy189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND foot problems are independent risk factors for falls in older people. Podiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of problems affecting the feet, ankles and lower limbs. However, the effectiveness of podiatry interventions to prevent falls in older people is unknown. This systematic review examined podiatry interventions for falls prevention delivered in the community and in care homes. METHODS systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched multiple electronic databases with no language restrictions. Randomised or quasi-randomised-controlled trials documenting podiatry interventions in older people (aged 60+) were included. Two reviewers independently applied selection criteria and assessed methodological quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. TiDieR guidelines guided data extraction and where suitable statistical summary data were available, we combined the selected outcome data in pooled meta-analyses. RESULTS from 35,857 titles and 5,201 screened abstracts, nine studies involving 6,502 participants (range 40-3,727) met the inclusion criteria. Interventions were single component podiatry (two studies), multifaceted podiatry (three studies), or multifactorial involving other components and referral to podiatry component (four studies). Seven studies were conducted in the community and two in care homes. Quality assessment showed overall low risk for selection bias, but unclear or high risk of detection bias in 4/9 studies. Combining falls rate data showed significant effects for multifaceted podiatry interventions compared to usual care (falls rate ratio 0.77 [95% CI 0.61, 0.99]); and multifactorial interventions including podiatry (falls rate ratio: 0.73 [95% CI 0.54, 0.98]). Single component podiatry interventions demonstrated no significant effects on falls rate. CONCLUSIONS multifaceted podiatry interventions and multifactorial interventions involving referral to podiatry produce significant reductions in falls rate. The effect of multi-component podiatry interventions and of podiatry within multifactorial interventions in care homes is unknown and requires further trial data. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42017068300.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Wylie
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Section of Ageing and Health, and NHS Tayside Allied Health Professions Directoriate, University of Dundee, 11 Airlie Place, Dundee, UK
| | - Claire Torrens
- Nursing Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, Pathfoot, UK
| | - Pauline Campbell
- Nursing Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, UK
| | - Helen Frost
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, 9 Sighthill Court, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Adam Lee Gordon
- Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Uttoxeter Road, Derby, UK
| | - Hylton B Menz
- Musculoskeletal Reseach Centre, School of Physiotherapy, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dawn A Skelton
- Institute of Applied Health Research, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, UK
| | - Frank Sullivan
- Division of Population and Behavioural Science, Department of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Miles D Witham
- Section of Ageing and Health, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - Jacqui Morris
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Dundee, 11 Airlie Place, Dundee, UK
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17
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Whiteside K, Flett L, Mitchell A, Fairhurst C, Cockayne S, Rodgers S, Torgerson D. Using pens as an incentive for trial recruitment of older adults: An embedded randomised controlled trial. F1000Res 2019; 8:315. [PMID: 30984388 PMCID: PMC6446499 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.18300.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Meeting recruitment targets for randomised controlled trials is challenging. This trial evaluated the effectiveness of including a pen within the trial invitation pack on the recruitment of older adults into a randomised controlled trial. Methods: This trial was embedded within the Occupational Therapist Intervention Study, a falls-prevention randomised controlled trial. Potential participants (n = 1862), who were posted an invitation pack from two General Practitioner practices, were randomised to either not receive a pen (n = 1295) or receive a pen (n = 648) with their invitation pack, using a 2:1 ratio. The primary outcome was the likelihood of being randomised, and therefore fully recruited, to the host trial. To be randomised to the host trial, participants had to: return a consent form and screening form; be eligible on their screening form; and return a baseline questionnaire and a monthly falls calendar. Secondary outcomes were: the likelihood of returning (and time to return) a screening form; being eligible for the host trial; and remaining in the trial for at least 3 months. Results: The likelihood of being randomised to the host trial did not differ between the pen group (4.5%) and no pen group (4.3%; odds ratio 1.04; 95% confidence interval: 0.65 to 1.67; p = 0.86). There were marginal differences in secondary outcomes in favour of the pen group, particularly in screening form return rates, though these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Pens may not be an effective incentive for the recruitment of older adults into randomised controlled trials, though future trials are required. Registration: ISRCTN22202133; SWAT 37.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Whiteside
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Lydia Flett
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Alex Mitchell
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Caroline Fairhurst
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sarah Cockayne
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sara Rodgers
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - David Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - OTIS Study Group
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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18
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Rodgers S, Sbizzera I, Cockayne S, Fairhurst C, Lamb SE, Vernon W, Watson J, Hewitt C, Torgerson D. A study update newsletter or Post-it® note did not increase postal questionnaire response rates in a falls prevention trial: an embedded randomised factorial trial. F1000Res 2018; 7:1083. [PMID: 30863532 PMCID: PMC6402081 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.14591.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Participants not returning data collection questionnaires is a problem for many randomised controlled trials. The resultant loss of data leads to a reduction in statistical power and can result in bias. The aim of this study was to assess whether the use of a study update newsletter and/or a handwritten or printed Post-it® note sticker increased postal questionnaire response rates for participants of a randomised controlled trial. Method: This study was a factorial trial embedded within a host trial of a falls-prevention intervention among men and women aged ≥65 years under podiatric care. Participants were randomised into one of six groups: newsletter plus handwritten Post-it®; newsletter plus printed Post-it®; newsletter only; handwritten Post-it® only; printed Post-it® only; or no newsletter or Post-it®. The results were combined with those from previous embedded randomised controlled trials in meta-analyses. Results: The overall 12-month response rate was 803/826 (97.2%) (newsletter 95.1%, no newsletter 99.3%, printed Post-it® 97.5%, handwritten Post-it® 97.1%, no Post-it® 97.1%). The study update newsletter had a detrimental effect on response rates (adjusted odds ratio 0.14, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.48, p<0.01) and time to return the questionnaire (adjusted hazard ratio 0.86, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.99, p=0.04). No other statistically significant differences were observed between the intervention groups on response rates, time to response, and the need for a reminder. Conclusions: Post-it® notes have been shown to be ineffective in three embedded trials, whereas the evidence for newsletter reminders is still uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rodgers
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Illary Sbizzera
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sarah Cockayne
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Caroline Fairhurst
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sarah E. Lamb
- Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wesley Vernon
- Division of Podiatry and Clinical Sciences, School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, HD1 3DH, UK
| | - Judith Watson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - David Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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19
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Rodgers S, Sbizzera I, Cockayne S, Fairhurst C, Lamb SE, Vernon W, Watson J, Hewitt C, Torgerson D. A nested randomised controlled trial of a newsletter and Post-it® note did not increase postal questionnaire response rates in a falls prevention trial. F1000Res 2018; 7:1083. [PMID: 30863532 PMCID: PMC6402081 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.14591.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Attrition (i.e. when participants do not return the questionnaires) is a problem for many randomised controlled trials. The resultant loss of data leads to a reduction in statistical power and can lead to bias. The aim of this study was to assess whether a pre-notification newsletter and/or a handwritten or printed Post-it® note sticker, as a reminder, increased postal questionnaire response rates for participants of randomised controlled trials. Method: This study was a factorial trial embedded within a trial of a falls-prevention intervention among men and women aged ≥65 years under podiatric care. Participants were randomised into one of six groups: newsletter plus handwritten Post-it®; newsletter plus printed Post-it®; newsletter only; handwritten Post-it® only; printed Post-it® only; or no newsletter or Post-it®. The results were combined with those from previous embedded randomised controlled trials in a meta-analysis. Results: The 12-month response rate was 803/826 (97.2%) (newsletter 95.1%, no newsletter 99.3%, printed Post-it® 97.5%, handwritten Post-it® 97.1%, no Post-it® 97.1%). Pre-notification with a newsletter had a detrimental effect on response rates (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.14; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.48; p<0.01) and time to return the questionnaire (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.99; p=0.04). No other statistically significant differences were observed between the intervention groups on response rates, time to response, and the need for a reminder. Conclusions: Post-it® notes have been shown to be ineffective in three embedded trials, whereas the evidence for newsletter reminders is still uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rodgers
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Illary Sbizzera
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sarah Cockayne
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Caroline Fairhurst
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sarah E. Lamb
- Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wesley Vernon
- Division of Podiatry and Clinical Sciences, School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, HD1 3DH, UK
| | - Judith Watson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - David Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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