COLMANS- MND study: secretions management
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding the Complexity of Living with, and Managing, Secretions in Motor Neurone Disease: An Ethnographic Study
IRAS ID
358724
Contact name
Caroline Barry
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 26 days
Research summary
Background:
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive, incurable condition which leads to muscle weakness over time. This weakness can lead to problems with speaking, swallowing, cough, breathing and moving. Being unable to cough effectively or swallow 'secretions' produced by the chest or mouth can lead to infection, a sensation of choking and distress.What:
In this study we want to explore the impact of excessive saliva and mucous for people with living with motor neurone disease (MND) and their unpaid/family carers. We know that this problem can have a negative effect on quality of life, symptom management and prognosis. Less is known about the optimal way of managing this problem, in a real life context, where there is significant variation in level of disability, social set up, medication/equipment availability and service provision.Why?
We want to understand the practical, social, and emotional factors that influence effective secretions management and explore professional perspectives on managing this problem. This project also involves a complex intervention systematic review, which, in combination with the evidence generated from this study will be used to help develop a decision support aid and service model to help improve the care of people living with this problem.Who?
This study will involve people affected by MND, their unpaid / family carers, and healthcare professionals involved in secretion management.How?
We will undertake interviews with participants, and observe some of the care that they receive. We will also ask consent to collect routine data from the patient record about medications prescribed and discuss care with healthcare professionals involved in secretions management.Where:
Care will be observed in a variety of settings from home to NHS clinics. The study will take place over 12 months. Focus groups/interviews will be conducted online and in person dependent on participant preference.REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
25/WA/0344
Date of REC Opinion
8 Jan 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion