A cluster randomized controlled trial comparing three methods of disseminating practice guidelines for children with croup
2006

Comparing Methods for Sharing Croup Treatment Guidelines

Sample size: 900 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): David W. Johnson, William Craig, Rollin Brant, Craig Mitton, Larry Svenson, Terry P. Klassen

Primary Institution: University of Calgary

Hypothesis

Which of the three intervention strategies are most effective at lowering the rate of hospital days per 1,000 disease episodes?

Conclusion

The study aims to identify the most effective strategy for implementing croup management guidelines to reduce hospital stays and improve treatment adherence.

Supporting Evidence

  • Croup is a common respiratory illness in children, and optimal management is well established.
  • Corticosteroids significantly reduce hospitalization rates and duration for croup.
  • There is a significant gap between known best practices and actual treatment provided.

Takeaway

This study is trying to find the best way to teach doctors how to treat kids with croup so that fewer kids need to go to the hospital.

Methodology

A matched pair cluster trial in 24 Alberta hospitals randomized into three intervention groups with mixed methods for outcome assessment.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to non-blinding of healthcare workers to the study intent.

Limitations

The study may face challenges in ensuring consistent implementation across different hospitals.

Participant Demographics

Children aged 0-16 years diagnosed with croup in Alberta hospitals.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1748-5908-1-10

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