NEXUS - Next Generation Health Through 2D & 3D Fetal UltraSound; Building Connections to Support Maternal-fetal Health

Launched by VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · Apr 13, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The NEXUS clinical trial is focused on improving the health of pregnant individuals and their babies, particularly those dealing with substance use issues. This study aims to create better healthcare experiences by using advanced ultrasound techniques and supportive counseling to help reduce health challenges faced by mothers and their infants. The goal is to provide tailored care that addresses their specific needs, ultimately promoting healthier outcomes for both mothers and their children.

To participate in the study, individuals must be pregnant, between the ages of 18 and 45, and in their second or third trimester (22-32 weeks along). They should be dealing with substance use challenges, either having been diagnosed in the past year or currently receiving treatment. Participants will work closely with a team of healthcare professionals and will receive guidance and support throughout their involvement. It’s important to note that individuals with certain cognitive or medical conditions, or known fetal anomalies, may not be eligible for this trial. Overall, the NEXUS trial seeks to create a supportive community and improve health equity for mothers and their babies.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant persons, Aged 18 through 45, between 22-32 weeks gestation at study entry
• • Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
• • Not incarcerated
• • Able to read and understand English
• • For infants after delivery, parental informed consent to participate in the study
• • Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures
• • Meets Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 criteria for Substance Abuse or substance use disorder in the last 12 months or is in active treatment for substance use disorder (including Nicotine/Tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, illicit and licit substances, and opioids) or actively using substances during pregnancy.
• • Willingness to participate in the NEXUS regimen
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presenting with cognitive impairment
• • psychiatric instability (active psychosis or acute mania)
• • language or legal barriers that would limit the patient's ability to provide informed consent and complete research assessments.
• • Known fetal anomalies
• • Medical conditions requiring frequent ultrasound monitoring outside the study (e.g.
• • Gestational Diabetes)