Returning to Everyday Tasks Utilizing Rehabilitation Networks-III (RETURN-III)

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Apr 16, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The RETURN-III trial is studying a new way to help patients who have had serious illnesses and spent time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but now struggle with thinking and memory problems, known as post-ICU long-term cognitive impairment (ICU-LTCI). This condition can make everyday activities, like managing medications or going back to work, very challenging. The researchers believe that using computer-based cognitive rehabilitation could help improve brain function and overall well-being for these patients. They are looking for 160 adults aged 65 and older who have recently stayed in the ICU for respiratory issues or shock but are no longer in need of ICU care.

To be eligible for the trial, participants must not have severe cognitive impairment before their ICU stay and should be willing to commit to the program. While taking part, participants can expect to engage in computer-based training designed to improve their thinking skills. This study is also important because it could lead to new rehabilitation strategies that benefit both veterans and civilians who have survived critical illnesses. If you or a loved one might qualify, this trial could provide an opportunity to help recover cognitive function and improve daily life.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults with a recent ICU stay (Medical or Surgical) requiring treatment for respiratory failure and/or shock (i.e., high-risk population)
• • No longer requiring ICU-level care
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • No history of pre-existing severe cognitive impairment (IQCODE\<3.3, documentation in medical record)
• • Unwilling to commit to participation in the intervention
• • Under consideration for hospice
• • Primary residence over 100 miles from enrolling site if the patient is unwilling to return to the enrolling site for follow-up
• • Homeless without a secondary contact available
• • Severe substance abuse or neuropsychiatric disorder of a severity that prevents independent living
• • Active suicidal ideation
• • Any past or present behavior that may be deemed a safety risk for follow-up
• • Blind, deaf, or unable to understand/communicate in English
• • Required ICU level care less than 24 hours
• • Not capable of completing computer-based training