International Survey to Establish Prioritized Outcomes for Trials in People With Coronavirus Disease 2019

Nicole Evangelidis1,2, Allison Tong1,2, Martin Howell1,2

  • 1Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.

Critical Care Medicine
|August 18, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Prioritizing outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) trials is crucial. This study identified key outcomes like mortality and respiratory failure, emphasizing patient-centered results for better decision-making.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical Research
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Over 4,000 clinical trials for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) exist.
  • Variability in outcomes and lack of patient-centered data may limit trial impact.
  • A consensus-based list of prioritized outcomes is needed for COVID-19 research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To generate a consensus-based, prioritized list of outcomes for COVID-19 trials.
  • To ensure trial outcomes align with patient and stakeholder priorities.
  • To improve the relevance and impact of COVID-19 research.

Main Methods:

  • An international online survey was conducted in multiple languages.
  • Participants included adults with COVID-19, family members, health professionals, and the public.
  • Outcomes were rated using a 9-point Likert scale and a Best-Worst Scale; comments were thematically analyzed.

Main Results:

  • 9,289 participants from 111 countries completed the survey.
  • Mortality, respiratory failure, pneumonia, and organ failure were top priorities for all groups.
  • Patients/family members prioritized symptoms like fatigue and anxiety higher than health professionals.

Conclusions:

  • Life-threatening respiratory and organ outcomes are consistently prioritized across stakeholder groups.
  • Patient-reported outcomes, such as fatigue and anxiety, received higher priority from patients/family members.
  • Prioritization was driven by fear of severe consequences, knowledge gaps, and preparedness needs.

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