Feasibility of the Use of Weighted Blankets to Improve Sleep Among Patients with Hematological Malignancies

Launched by M.D. ANDERSON CANCER CENTER · Sep 3, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether using weighted blankets can help improve sleep quality for patients with blood cancers, also known as hematological malignancies. Weighted blankets are special blankets that are heavier than usual and are designed to provide gentle pressure, which may help people feel more relaxed and sleep better. The study aims to understand how these blankets can benefit patients who often struggle with sleep due to their condition.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be adults aged 18 or older and receiving outpatient care at MD Anderson Cancer Center. They should have a diagnosis of a blood cancer and experience some sleep difficulties. However, there are certain criteria that could prevent someone from joining, such as specific health issues or medical conditions that might make using a weighted blanket uncomfortable or unsafe. If eligible, participants will have the opportunity to use a weighted blanket and share their experiences regarding its impact on their sleep. This study is not yet recruiting, but it aims to provide valuable insights into innovative ways to support patients’ sleep and overall well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Outpatient at MD Anderson Cancer Center
• • 2. Adult patients ≥ 18 years
• • 3. Diagnosis of hematological malignancy
• • 4. ESAS Sleep\>/=4
• • 5. Performance status as measured by Eastern Cooperative Oncology Practice group (ECOG) score of 2 or below
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Platelet count of 25 or below
• • 2. History of seizures/intracranial metastasis/ sleep apnea/restless leg syndrome/paralysis
• • 3. Weight less than 150 lbs.
• • 4. Attending physician assessment of prognosis with expected life expectancy of \<1 month
• • 5. Patients who are unable to tolerate their blankets/sheets in the night due to medical conditions such as pain, peripheral neuropathy, night sweats, hot flashes etc.
• • 6. Patients with difficulty breathing, disorders of poor circulation, fragile skin, rash, or open wounds, or by those who are claustrophobic or cleithrophobic.
• • 7. Prior use of weighted blankets within the past 1-year