Understanding Communication in Children's Clinical Trials
Author Information
Author(s): Valerie Shilling, Paula R. Williamson, Helen Hickey, Emma Sowden, Michael W. Beresford, Rosalind L. Smyth, Bridget Young
Primary Institution: University of Liverpool
Hypothesis
How do parents and practitioners perceive the communication during recruitment to children's clinical trials?
Conclusion
Parents were more positive about being approached to enter their child into a clinical trial than practitioners anticipated.
Supporting Evidence
- Parents contributed a median of 16% of the total dialogue during recruitment discussions.
- Parents reported feeling comfortable and valued during the trial discussions.
- Practitioners expressed concerns about overwhelming families with information.
Takeaway
Parents are generally happy to be asked about their child's participation in clinical trials, while doctors often worry that they might be overwhelming them.
Methodology
This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews and audio-recordings of recruitment discussions across four clinical trials.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the predominance of mothers in the sample and the influence of practitioners' comfort levels.
Limitations
The study primarily included families who consented to trials, limiting insights from those who declined.
Participant Demographics
59 families (58 mothers, 3 fathers) with children involved in clinical trials.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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