Feasibility and Outcomes in a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Psychosocial Intervention for Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Adrienne H. Kovacs, Sherry L. Grace, Amanda C. Kentner, Robert P. Nolan, Candice K. Silversides, M. Jane Irvine

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: North American adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) are known to be at elevated risk of mood and anxiety disorders. This was the first trial of a group psychosocial intervention targeting this patient population. Methods: Within this feasibility study, we conducted a 2-arm pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) in which patients were randomized to Usual Care or an 8-session group psychosocial intervention (Adult Congenital Heart Disease-Coping and Resilience [ACHD-CARE]). Here, we report feasibility outcomes in accordance with published recommendations: (1) process, (2) resources, (3) management, (4) acceptability of the intervention, and (5) scientific outcomes (for which the primary outcome measures were anxiety and depression symptoms). Results: Forty-two patients were randomized in the pilot RCT. The study was executable within a realistic timeline and revealed no significant human and data-management problems. The intervention was determined to be acceptable and highly valued by participants who participated in the ACHD-CARE program. The main challenges were practical barriers (eg, transportation, scheduling group sessions in-person given competing schedules) and retention. With regard to scientific outcomes, there were no adverse outcomes, and treatment fidelity was confirmed. Although not powered to test efficacy, there was a medium effect size (in favour of the intervention group) for depression symptoms. Conclusions: We determined it would be feasible to conduct a full-scale trial of a psychosocial intervention targeting adults with CHD, although with modifications to address practical barriers to participation. Should this intervention prove effective, a manualized intervention could be made be available.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)766-773
Number of pages8
JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology
Volume34
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2018

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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