NGAGE Tool for Family Engagement

(NGAGE Trial)

This trial tests a new tool called NGAGE, designed to involve family members of ICU patients more in their loved one's care. The researchers aim to determine if NGAGE can improve family communication with healthcare teams and increase satisfaction with the care their loved ones receive. The trial also examines whether NGAGE can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in family members. Participants must be adults related to someone in the ICU for at least 48 hours and able to speak English or French. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance family involvement in ICU care.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research shows that the NGAGE tool helps family members become more involved in patient care. Testing with families in other studies has shown that it increases their involvement in the care process. Importantly, no reports of harmful effects have emerged from using the NGAGE tool, suggesting it is safe for family members. While it enhances family engagement, it does not appear to cause any problems or risks for users.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the NGAGE tool because it offers a fresh approach to family engagement in healthcare settings. Unlike standard practices that rely on traditional methods of communication and involvement, the NGAGE tool aims to enhance family participation by providing structured and interactive support. This tool could lead to more effective collaboration between families and healthcare providers, potentially resulting in better health outcomes. By focusing on active engagement, NGAGE could transform how families contribute to and participate in the care process.

Research has shown that the NGAGE tool might help family members become more involved in patient care. An initial study found that 69% of family members used the tool, indicating its practicality for everyday use. In this trial, participants in the intervention group will receive access to the NGAGE tool, enabling families to share their care preferences with healthcare teams, potentially enhancing their involvement in care. Participants in the control group will not have access to the NGAGE tool and will engage in care according to current family engagement practices. While these results are encouraging, further testing is needed to confirm its effectiveness in various situations.¹²⁶⁷⁸