Measurement of Heart Rate Variability in critically ill patients
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Measurement of Heart Rate Variability in critically ill patients: Refinement of data acquisition and analysis
IRAS ID
254530
Contact name
Ingeborg Welters
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Liverpool Joint Research Office
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research study is a prospective observational feasibility study to investigate two devices for monitoring and recording Heart Rate Variability (HRV).
HRV is a technique that measures the time interval between each heartbeat on the heart tracing called electrocardiograph (ECG). HRV may allow doctors to determine if a patient’s condition is worsening earlier than existing monitoring methods. Monitors in the intensive care unit (ICU) do not automatically calculate HRV.
In this study we will assess two devices. Device one is Holter ECG monitoring, that records ECG from 3-5 electrodes attached to the patients chest onto a memory card and is considered the goldstandard for ECG monitoring. Device two is a wireless patch that is attached to the patients chest and records ECG onto a tablet computer. ECG recordings will then be used to calculate HRV.
Aims of the study include:
Determine if we can calculate HRV using the two devices and how comparable they are.
To identify the most suitable device for HRV monitoring in critically ill patients.
To define any amendments needed to record HRV and analyse HRV before proceeding to a larger clinical trial.
We will recruit 40 patients admitted to ICU. Consent will be obtained from the patient, a relative or a nominated consultee. There will be no change in patient care or treatment.
Information regarding, patient demographics, reason for admission, co-morbidities, medications, daily blood results will be recorded and assessed for links with HRV or if they affect the HRV measurement.
All patients will be identified by a unique patient identifier, and all patient information will be anonymised. HRV data will be recorded for 72 hours, until patient discharge or until patient death.
Patients will be followed up by a member of the research team at day 30 and day 90, either face to face or via telephone.
REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
19/WA/0317
Date of REC Opinion
17 Dec 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion