What is a Research Nurse Job?
A research nurse job involves conducting clinical research studies and collecting data for analysis. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including academic institutions, research organizations, and pharmaceutical companies. Research nurses work with patients to ensure they understand the study and its requirements, and they collaborate with other healthcare professionals to achieve research goals.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Research nurses are responsible for a variety of tasks related to clinical research studies. They screen and recruit patients, collect data and specimens, administer treatments and medications, and monitor patients for adverse events. They also maintain accurate and detailed records of study activities and communicate with study sponsors, principal investigators, and other members of the research team.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Strong communication skills: Research nurses need to communicate effectively with patients, study sponsors, and other members of the research team.
- Attention to detail: Accuracy is critical in clinical research, and research nurses must ensure that all data and specimens are properly collected and recorded.
- Organizational skills: Research nurses must be able to manage multiple tasks and prioritize their workload to meet study deadlines.
- Clinical knowledge: Research nurses must have a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology, as well as disease processes and treatments.
- Flexibility: Research studies can be unpredictable, and research nurses must be able to adapt to changes in study protocols and procedures.
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a research nurse, you typically need to have a nursing degree (RN) and a minimum of two years of clinical experience. Additional education and training in research methods and ethics may also be required. Certification as a clinical research professional (CCRP) is available through the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA) and the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).
Average Salary
The average salary for a research nurse in the United States is $75,000 per year, although salaries can vary depending on experience, education, and location.
Roles and Types
Research nurses work in a variety of roles and settings, including:
- Clinical research coordinator: Coordinates all aspects of clinical research studies, including patient recruitment, data collection, and study management.
- Research nurse practitioner: Provides advanced nursing care to patients enrolled in clinical research studies.
- Research nurse specialist: Provides expertise in a particular area of clinical research, such as oncology or cardiology.
- Research nurse manager: Oversees a team of research nurses and coordinates study activities.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Research nurse jobs are available throughout the United States, but some of the most popular locations include:
- Boston, MA
- San Francisco, CA
- Seattle, WA
- New York, NY
- Washington, DC
What Are the Typical Tools?
Research nurses use a variety of tools in their work, including:
- Electronic data capture (EDC) systems
- Clinical trial management systems (CTMS)
- Electronic medical records (EMRs)
- Specimen collection and processing equipment
- Medical devices and equipment
In Conclusion
Research nurse jobs offer exciting opportunities for nurses who are interested in clinical research and want to make a difference in patient care. With strong communication skills, attention to detail, and clinical knowledge, research nurses can play a vital role in advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. If you're interested in pursuing a career in research nursing, consider obtaining additional education and certification to enhance your skills and qualifications.