Applying Iterative RE-AIM to Translate Evaluation Data Into Real-Time Adaptations

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new method for using real-time data to adapt interventions during trials, improving effectiveness through collaborative decision-making.

Contribution

The novel application of iterative RE-AIM to evaluate and adapt intervention components in real-time, fostering collaboration between teams.

Findings

Aggregated survey data were used collaboratively to guide real-time adaptations in the 40Winks sleep trial.

Iterative RE-AIM enabled combined input from intervention and evaluation teams, enhancing intervention effectiveness and reach.

The process facilitated systematic improvements during the trial by acting on data as it was collected.

Abstract

Iterative RE-AIM provides a novel approach to evaluating interventions in real-time and translating those insights into actionable adaptations. Using the principles of iterative RE-AIM, we conducted a midpoint survey with the members of the coaching intervention team and the implementation evaluation team for 40Winks, a nursing home-based sleep trial. We convened a facilitated meeting with these two teams to discuss results and priorities, evaluate existing adaptations, review the effectiveness of the current intervention plan, propose future adaptations, and formulate a plan for implementation. The aggregated survey data were displayed and discussed by the two teams together as part of this process. While iterative RE-AIM outlines a process for evaluating an intervention’s adherence to the RE-AIM model, we applied this framework to evaluate the intervention’s components rather than the RE-AIM dimensions. This modification allowed us to bring all levels of the intervention and evaluation teams together to have a combined voice in the direction and evaluation of the intervention, and to make critical, real-time adaptations to enhance the effectiveness and reach of the intervention. This presentation will provide a roadmap of the process our team developed, guided by the principles of iterative RE-AIM, to display the evaluation survey and data and discuss strategies for implementing the results of this survey to lead real-time adaptations. This novel methodology allows the teams to learn from and act upon their own data in real time, allowing for iterative and systematic improvements in an intervention as a trial progresses.