Optimizing the Care Pathway of Febrile Children Using Capillary C-reactive Protein Measurement in Primary Care: A Multicenter Randomized Trial Protocol

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how using a capillary medical device to measure C-reactive protein (CRP) in primary care can improve the care pathway for children aged 3 months to 15 years who have fever. Fever is a common reason for outpatient visits in children aged 2 to 9 years, and distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections is challenging. The study aims to reduce unnecessary referrals to emergency rooms and laboratories, which can cause overcrowding and delays in treatment, by providing quicker CRP results in primary care settings. The study compares two groups: one where CRP is measured using a capillary device called ACTIM-CRP during primary care visits, and a control group receiving usual care without this device. Children with fever meeting specific criteria related to duration and severity are included. The trial is randomized and single-blinded, starting in September 2025 and continuing until March 2026. Researchers will observe how the use of capillary CRP affects referrals to emergency facilities and laboratory testing at days 1 and 7 after consultation. Participants will be assessed for referral rates to emergency laboratories and departments, the number and type of additional tests, antibiotic prescriptions, fever duration, and satisfaction of both general practitioners and parents. Researchers will also analyze the time general practitioners spend and the cost impact of care. Data will be collected at baseline and follow-up visits, with careful monitoring of outcomes over seven days. The study is sponsored by Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nîmes and aims to streamline fever management in children, potentially reducing healthcare strain and costs.

Optimizing the Care Pathway of Febrile Children Via Capillary C-reactive Protein Assay in Primary Care