The staircase cluster randomised trial design: A pragmatic alternative to the stepped wedge.

ABSTRACT: This article introduces the 'staircase' design, derived from the zigzag pattern of steps along the diagonal of a stepped wedge design schematic where clusters switch from control to intervention conditions. Unlike a complete stepped wedge design where all participating clusters must collect and provide data for the entire trial duration, clusters in a staircase design are only required to be involved and collect data for a limited number of pre- and post-switch periods. This could alleviate some of the burden on participating clusters, encouraging involvement in the trial and reducing the likelihood of attrition. Staircase designs are already being implemented, although in the absence of a dedicated methodology, approaches to sample size and power calculations have been inconsistent. We pr

SUBMITTER: Grantham KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10863363 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature