Clinical Research Nurse
A clinical research nurse is responsible for the care of patients participating in clinical trials. They ensure compliance with study protocols, monitor patient health, and collect data for research.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Clinical Research Nurse
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
A Clinical Research Nurse supports clinical trials and studies by providing care to patients and ensuring adherence to protocols. This entry-level role requires combining clinical skills with an interest in research, data analysis, and patient advocacy.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills with attention to detail
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Basic understanding of the research process and data collection
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and computer applications
- Ability to educate and advocate for patients within a research context
Qualifications
- Current registered nurse (RN) license
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing or a related health science field
- Understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and regulatory compliance
- Eligibility to work in the respective country of employment
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and/or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification may be required
Responsibilities
- Assist in the recruitment, screening, and enrollment of study participants
- Conduct study-related assessments and collect patient data
- Administer medications as outlined in study protocols
- Coordinate patient care with other healthcare team members
- Ensure compliance with study protocols and ethical guidelines
- Educate and counsel patients and their families on study procedures
- Monitor patients for adverse events and report accordingly
- Assist with data entry and maintenance of patient records
- Participate in study meetings and continuing education related to clinical research
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Clinical Research Nurse plays a pivotal role in clinical trials and works to ensure the integrity and quality of the research while maintaining patient safety and meticulous adherence to protocol. They work closely with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to administer treatments, monitor patients, and collect data for clinical research studies.
Required Skills
- Excellent clinical skills and knowledge of health care related to clinical research.
- Strong ability to communicate effectively with patients and the healthcare team.
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks concurrently.
- Proficiency in using clinical trial management software and electronic health records.
- Capability to maintain ethical standards and protect the rights and welfare of patients.
Qualifications
- Current Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent degree.
- 2-5 years of clinical nursing experience, with prior experience in a clinical research setting preferred.
- Certification in Clinical Research Nursing (CRN) is an asset.
- Understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), FDA regulations, and ICH guidelines.
Responsibilities
- Conduct patient screening and enrollment processes for clinical trials.
- Administer study medications and monitor patients for adverse reactions.
- Document patient progress and adverse events accurately and promptly in the clinical trial management system.
- Collaborate with the research team to ensure compliance with protocol and overall clinical objectives.
- Educate patients and their families about the clinical trial process and the specifics of the study.
- Ensure that the informed consent process is conducted properly and all participant questions are addressed.
- Manage patient follow-up and ensure all visits are completed as per the study schedule.
- Coordinate with laboratory personnel to process and ship specimens accurately and in a timely manner.
- Maintain strict confidentiality of patient information in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Clinical Research Nurse, you will play a critical role in the conduction of clinical trials, overseeing patient care and ensuring compliance with research protocols. Your extensive experience in nursing and clinical research will enable you to lead research studies, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.
Required Skills
- Strong clinical skills and knowledge of clinical research protocols.
- Excellent coordination and organizational skills.
- Ability to mentor and lead a team.
- Proficient in electronic data capture systems and clinical trial management software.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy in data reporting.
- Ability to multitask and manage complex projects.
Qualifications
- Registered Nurse (RN) with a current license.
- Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master's preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of clinical nursing experience.
- At least 2 years of experience in a clinical research setting.
- Certification in Clinical Research Nursing (CRN) or willingness to obtain.
- Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and regulatory compliance.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and execute clinical research studies in collaboration with a team of healthcare professionals.
- Ensure the well-being and safety of patients participating in clinical trials.
- Monitor patient responses to treatments and report adverse events to the principal investigator.
- Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all clinical research activities.
- Collaborate with clinical research coordinators to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to junior nursing staff and research team members.
- Assist in the development of research protocols and standard operating procedures.
- Contribute to the analysis and interpretation of clinical data for publication and presentation.
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