Pilot study of Fluid Management System
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Pilot study of Patient Compliance with a Personalised Fluid Management System
IRAS ID
182452
Contact name
Andrew Gammie
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
North Bristol Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 0 days
Research summary
It is not unknown for patients to be referred to consultant urologists to find that management of fluid intake is the first thing required. In response to patients demonstrating a lack of knowledge of the most basic elements of continence management, this project has developed the design of an easy-to-use, evidence-based algorithm and set of charts ('the system') to give personalised advice on fluid intake. Patients describe their symptoms and their fluid intake, and a set of charts summarise published evidence to give guidance on changing fluid intake accordingly. The goal is to allow patients to manage their fluid intake, thus reducing their symptoms of incontinence and reducing their need for GP and specialist services.
For example, a patient complaining of frequency of urination and disturbed sleep might be helped to realize that their intake of caffeine is high and that their habit of evening drinks results in night time urination. Once they try decaffeinated drinks, and having no intake after 8pm, they may find symptoms improve to the extent that no medical appointments are needed.
Under an award from the Devices for Dignity NIHR Healthcare Technology Cooperative, the Institute has trialled a paper prototype of the design and commissioned a business case for the application. The prospective savings for the NHS have been estimated at over £7 million.
We propose to configure the prototype as a screen based application for fluid intake summary, and a set of charts for gauging the appropriate advice to give the individual. We will test compliance with the advice received in a small series of patients to demonstrate that behavioural change is achievable with this approach. The evidence will strengthen the case for a full trial under RfPB of the effectiveness of fluid management advice given in a variety of formats.
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/SW/0190
Date of REC Opinion
20 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion