Using an objective computer task (QbTest) to aid the identification of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the Children and Young People Secure Estate (CYPSE): a feasibility randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Objectives QbTest has been shown to improve time to decision/diagnosis for young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The aim was to assess the feasibility of QbTest for young people in prison.Design Single-centre feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT), with 1:1 allocation. Concealed random allocation using an online pseudorandom list with random permuted blocks of varying sizes.Setting One Young Offenders Institution in England.Participants 355 young people aged 15–18 years displaying possible symptoms of ADHD were assessed for eligibility, 69 were eligible to take part and 60 were randomised.Intervention QbTest—a computer task measuring attention, activity and impulsivity.Main outcome measures Eligibility, recruitment and retention rates and acceptability of randomisation and trial participation.Results Of the 355 young people assessed for eligibility, 69 were eligible and 60 were randomised (n=30 QbTest plus usual care; n=30 usual care alone). The study achieved the specified recruitment target. Trial participation and randomisation were deemed acceptable by the majority of participants. 78% of young people were followed up at 3 months, but only 32% at 6 months, although this was also affected by COVID-19 restrictions. Secondary outcomes were mixed. Participants including clinical staff were mostly supportive of the study and QbTest; however, some young people found QbTest hard and there were issues with implementation of the ADHD care pathway. There were no serious adverse events secondary to the study or intervention and no one was withdrawn from the study due to an adverse event.Conclusions With adaptations, a fully powered RCT may be achievable to evaluate the effectiveness of QbTest in the assessment of ADHD in the Children and Young People Secure Estate, with time to decision (days) as the primary outcome measure. However, further programme developmental work is required to address some of the challenges highlighted prior to a larger trial.Trial registration number ISRCTN17402196.