Adapting the quintet recruitment intervention (QRI) to optimise recruitment in an ongoing randomised controlled trial

Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) are the most rigorous study design to evaluate healthcare interventions. However, their success relies on patient recruitment. The QuinteT Recruitment Intervention (QRI) aims to address recruitment difficulties and enhance information delivery in RCTs, using qualitative methods. It has been implemented in 26 current and completed RCTs, either as part of the initial study design, or brought in part-way through when recruitment is particularly challenging. The QRI comprises two-phases: Phase I - investigation of recruitment processes, using interviews, screening logs and recordings of trial consultations; Phase II - developing an action plan in agreement with the RCT’s Chief Investigator. A QRI typically takes 12-18 months. Where trials are experiencing recruitment difficulties, and have to respond swiftly to funders it may not be possible to complete a full QRI. We report and reflect on a developmental abridged version of the QRI as applied to a UK-based RCT comparing urological surgical procedures.