New approach to CPR talks may help patients and families feel heard

NCT ID NCT02984124

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Vermont Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a new way for doctors to discuss CPR with older, seriously ill patients and their families. Instead of the usual conversation, doctors followed a step-by-step guide that focused on the patient's values and explained why CPR might not help. The goal was to see if this approach improved how patients and families rated the quality of communication.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If this approach works, it could help doctors have clearer, more compassionate conversations about CPR with very sick patients and their families.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study focused on communication, not a treatment. Results may not apply to all hospitals or patient groups.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

advanced heart failure cancer chronic kidney disease chronic obstructive pulmonary disease cirrhosis of liver end stage renal failure heart failure interstitial lung disease lung carcinoma metastatic malignant neoplasm pulmonary fibrosis pulmonary hypertension

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE SEVERE FUNCTIONAL IMPAIRMENT SEVERE LIFE-LIMITING CIRRHOSIS SEVERE LIFE-LIMITING COPD SEVERE LIFE-LIMITING HEART FAILURE SEVERE LIFE-LIMITING MALIGNANCY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Medical University of South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States
University of North Carolina

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, United States
University of Vermont

Burlington, Vermont, 05405, United States
University of Washington

Seattle, Washington, 98104, United States

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