ORDERed Recruitment for Stroke Research

(ORDERed Trial)

This trial tests a new method to recruit women into stroke research using user-friendly materials such as brochures and videos. The goal is to make stroke studies more inclusive by comparing this new recruitment method, called ORDERed, to the traditional one. Researchers will evaluate how many people join, how quickly they decide, and what influences their participation. Ideal candidates for the trial are patients with recent strokes or transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes) referred from an emergency department. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to enhance recruitment methods and make stroke research more inclusive.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that the ORDERed recruitment process aims to improve how women are invited to join stroke research studies. This method remains safe as it involves no medical treatments or procedures. Instead, it uses tools like brochures and videos to make the recruitment process more inclusive and easier to understand, especially for women. The study seeks to determine if this approach encourages more participation in stroke research. Without involving medical treatment, there are no known side effects. Participants can expect a clear and supportive experience without any safety risks.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the ORDERed recruitment process because it aims to enhance the way participants, especially women and those with aphasia, are engaged in stroke research. Unlike traditional recruitment methods that rely solely on written information, ORDERed integrates a more inclusive approach by using video and brochures designed to be women-centered and aphasia-friendly. This new method could lead to a more diverse and representative participant pool, potentially improving the outcomes and applicability of stroke research findings.

Research has shown that innovative recruitment methods, such as the ORDERed toolkit, might increase participation in stroke studies, particularly among women. This trial will recruit participants using either traditional methods or the ORDERed approach. A review of typical recruitment strategies for stroke trials found that traditional methods often fall short, with only about one-third of stroke survivors agreeing to participate. The ORDERed approach employs materials tailored for women and resources that are accessible to those with communication difficulties, aiming to address these challenges. Although specific data on ORDERed's effectiveness is limited, similar methods have shown promise in enhancing recruitment, suggesting it could improve participation and foster more inclusive research.¹³⁴⁶⁷