From: Study protocol: The Improving Care of Acute Lung Injury Patients (ICAP) study
During inpatient stay |
   1. Describe the frequency, duration, and number of follow-up visits to potential participants |
   2. Collect comprehensive contact information (for example, address, multiple telephone numbers for patient and two or more contacts) for participant tracking |
   3. Visit the participant frequently, offering to answer any questions |
   4. Provide a business card before discharge and encourage the participant to call with questions |
After discharge |
   1. Call the participant within 4 days of discharge to verify location and confirm health status |
   2. Send a letter and refrigerator magnet (with study logo and phone number) within 2 weeks of discharge |
   3. Call the participant 1 month after discharge to confirm health status and remind him/her about the ICAP study |
Follow-up visits |
   1. Phone and mail (if necessary) the participant to schedule a follow-up visit at least 1 month in advance |
   2. Mail a confirmation letter with relevant instructions 2 weeks before the appointment |
   3. Phone the participant to remind him/her of the appointment 1 day before visit |
   4. Greet the participant at hospital entrance and accompany him/her throughout all stages and locations of the follow-up visit |
   5. Provide meal voucher and free parking or taxi service for the appointment |
   6. Mail the participant a handwritten thank-you note within 1 week after the appointment |
Ongoing retention |
   1. Confirm contact information by phone or mail 18 months after ALI/ARDS diagnosis (for example, between 1-year and 2-year appointment) |
   2. Mail all patients an annual study newsletter |
   3. Mail each participant an annual birthday card, signed by all study staff |