clinical research nurse skills

How to Become a Research Nurse

What is a research nurse.

• Career Outlook

Research Nurses, also referred to as Clinical Nurse Researchers or Nurse Researchers, develop and implement studies to investigate and provide information on new medications, vaccinations, and medical procedures. They assist in providing evidence-based research that is essential to safe and quality nursing care. This guide will explain what a Research Nurse does, how much they make, how to become one, and more!

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Research nurses play a pivotal role in developing new and potentially life-saving medical treatments. Typically, clinical research nurses have advanced degrees, assist in the development of studies regarding medications, vaccines, and medical procedures, and also the care of research participants. 

Nurses that know they want to be a clinical research nurse will often work as a research assistant, a clinical data collector, and/or clinical research monitor. It is essential to gain some bedside experience, but not as important as other nursing specialties. 

Clinical research nurses have advanced degrees such as an MSN or Ph.D. This is vital to those that want to conduct independent research. For that reason, most clinical research nurses do not work in this field until they are in their 40s-50s.

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What does a research nurse do.

Research Nurses primarily conduct evidence-based research through these two types of research methods:

• Quantitative: Meaning it’s researched that can be measured via statistical, mathematical, or computational techniques.
• Phenomenology
• Grounded Theory
• Ethnography
• Narrative Inquiry

Clinical research nurses perform a variety of tasks, all centered around research. These specific job responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with industry sponsors and other investigators from multi-institutional studies
• Educating and training of new research staff
• Overseeing the running of clinical trials
• Administering questionnaires to clinical trial participants
• Writing articles and research reports in nursing or medical professional journals or other publications
• Monitoring research participants to ensure adherence to study rules
• Adhering to research regulatory standards
• Writing grant applications to secure funding for studies
• Reporting findings of research, which may include presenting findings at industry conferences, meetings and other speaking engagements
• Adhering to ethical standards
• Maintaining detailed records of studies as per FDA guidelines, including things such as drug dispensation
• Participating in subject recruitment efforts
• Ensuring the necessary supplies and equipment for a study are in stock and in working order
• Engaging with subjects and understanding their concerns
• Providing patients with thorough explanation of trial prior to obtaining Informed Consent, in collaboration with treating physician and provides patient education on an ongoing basis throughout the patient’s course of trial.

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Research Nurse Salary

Glassdoor.com states an annual median salary of $95,396 for Research Nurses and Payscale reports that Clinical Research Nurses earn an average annual salary of $75,217 or $36.86/hr . 

Research Nurse Salary by Years of Experience

Research Nurses can earn a higher annual salary with increased years of experience.

• Less than 1 year  of experience earn an average salary of $68,000
• 1-4 years of experience earn an average salary of $73,000
• 5-9 years of experience earns an average salary of $73,000
• 10-19 years of experience earns an average salary of $80,000
• 20 years or more of experience earns an average salary of $78,000

Via Payscale

To become a Research Nurse, you’ll need to complete the following steps:

Step 1: Attend Nursing School

You’ll need to earn either an ADN or a BSN from an accredited nursing program in order to take the first steps to become a registered nurse. 

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN

Become a Registered Nurse by passing the NCLEX examination.

Step 3: Gain Experience at the Bedside

Though not as important as in some other nursing careers, gaining experience is still a vital step for those wanting to become Nurse Researchers. 

Step 4: Earn an MSN and/or Ph.D

Research Nurses typically need an advanced degree, so ADN-prepared nurses will need to complete an additional step of either completing their BSN degree or entering into an accelerated RN to MSN program which will let them earn their BSN and MSN at the same time. 

Step 5: Earn Your Certification

There are currently two certifications available for Clinical Research Nurses. They are both offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals. 

• Clinical Research Association (CCRA)
• Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) 

These certifications are not specific to nurses but rather those that work in the research field. 

CCRA Certification

In order to be deemed eligible for the CCRA Certification exam, applicants must attest to having earned 3,000 hours of professional experience performing the knowledge and tasks located in the six content areas of the CRA Detailed Content Outline. Any experience older than ten years will not be considered.

What’s on the Exam?

• Scientific Concepts and Research Design
• Ethical and Participant Safety Considerations
• Product Development and Regulation
• Clinical Trial Operations (GCPs)
• Study and Site Management
• Data Management and Informatics

Exam Information

• Exam Fee: $435 Member; $485 Nonmember
• Exam Fee: $460 Member; $600 Nonmember
• Multiple choice examination with 125 questions (25 pretest non-graded questions)

CCRC Certification

In order to be deemed eligible for the CCRC Certification exam, applicants must attest to having earned 3,000 hours of professional experience performing the knowledge and tasks located in the six content areas of the CCRC Detailed Content Outline. Any experience older than ten years will not be considered.

Where Do Research Nurses Work?

Clinical Research nurses can work in a variety of locations, including:

• Government Agencies
• Teaching Hospitals
• Medical Clinics
• International Review Board
• Medicine manufacturing 
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Medical research organizations
• Research Organizations
• International Health Organizations
• Private practice
• Private and public foundations

What is the Career Outlook for a Research Nurse?

According to the BLS , from 2022 to 2032, there is an expected growth of 6% for registered nurses. With the aging population and nursing shortage, this number is expected to be even higher.

The BLS does identify medical scientists, which includes clinical research nurses, as having a growth potential of 10% between 2022-2032. 

What are the Continuing Education Requirements for a Research Nurse?

Generally, in order for an individual to renew their RN license, they will need to fill out an application, complete a specific number of CEU hours, and pay a nominal fee. Each state has specific requirements and it is important to check with the board of nursing prior to applying for license renewal.

 If the RN license is part of a compact nursing license, the CEU requirement will be for the state of permanent residence. Furthermore, some states require CEUs related to child abuse, narcotics, and/or pain management. 

A detailed look at Continuing Nurse Education hours can be found here .

Where Can I Learn More About Becoming a Research Nurse?

• American Nurses Association (ANA)
• Nurse Researcher Magazine
• National Institute of Nursing Research
• International Association of Clinical Research Nurses
• Association of Clinical Research Professionals
• Society of Clinical Research Associates
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing

Research Nurse FAQs

What is the role of a research nurse.

• Research nursing is a nursing practice with a specialty focus on the care of research participants. 

What makes a good Research Nurse?

• Research Nurses should be excellent communicators, have strong attention to detail, be self-assured, have strong clinical abilities, be flexible, autonomous, organized, and eager to learn new information.

How much does a Research Nurse make?

• Research nurses earn an average salary of $95,396 according to Glassdoor.com.

What is it like being a Research Nurse?

• Research Nurses provide and coordinate clinical care. Research Nurses have a central role in ensuring participant safety, maintaining informed consent, the integrity of protocol implementation, and the accuracy of data collection and data recording.

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

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Clinical research nursing

A one-stop-shop for nurses working in clinical research

Clinical research nurses play a vital role in delivering clinical research, and ultimately improving patient care.

Clinical research is essential.

It is the only evidence-based method of deciding whether a new approach to treatment or care is better than the current standard, and is essential to diagnose, treat, prevent, and cure disease. Clinical research nurses play a vital role in delivering clinical research, and ultimately improving patient care and treatment pathways.

Duties could include:

• supporting a patient through their treatment as part of a clinical trial
• preparing trial protocols and other trial-related documentation
• helping to develop new drugs, treatments, care pathways or regimens for patients
• dealing with data collection
• submitting study proposals for regulatory approval, and co-ordinating the initiation, management and completion of the research
• managing a team.

Celebrating clinical research nursing and its vital role in health care

29 April 2021, London

COVID-19 and clinical research nurses

The current pandemic has raised the awareness of clinical research and the impact it has on identifying effective treatments to treat this recently emerging virus. From the outset, clinical research has been a key part of the government's response and the plan to contain, delay, research and mitigate. Clinical research nurses (CRNs) have been key to the effective delivery of many of the COVID-19 interventional and observational studies now running or completed. In order to focus recruitment on key treatment studies, trusts have been encouraged to prioritise studies approved by the UK's four Chief Medical Officers (CMO) and running within the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network.

The following articles provide further information on the work of CRNs during the current pandemic.

• Iles-Smith H et al on behalf of the Association of UK Lead Research Nurses (2020) How research nurses and midwives are supporting COVID-19 clinical trials . Nursing Times [online]; 116: 11, 20-22.
• Jones H et al (2020) Clinical research nurses and midwives - a key workforce in the coronavirus pandemic . Nursing Times [online]; 30 Apr 2020.

Clinical research and the NIHR

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funds health and care research and provides the people, facilities, and technology that enables research to thrive.

The NIHR invests significantly in people, centres of excellence, collaborations, services and facilities to support health and care research in England. Collectively these form the NIHR infrastructure, which can support you to:

• find collaboration opportunities
• access methodology advice
• access facilities for early stage research
• run your study
• access data, patient cohorts or sample support

Collaborations, services and support for your research

Are you a nurse, midwife or allied health professional (AHP) practicing in the NHS? Do you have views about how research is delivered by Clinical Research Nurses in the NHS? Would you be prepared to share those views?

The Represent-CRN study is part of the Royal College of Nursing Strategic Research Alliance with the University of Sheffield. It aims to explore the views of registered NHS staff operating outside of clinical research delivery teams, in relation to the Clinical Research Nurse role and research delivery.

By exploring these views, we hope to shed light on what leads to different perceptions of research, ultimately to enable more patients to have the opportunity to participate in research that is relevant to their health.    Find out more about the study .

Looking for a career in clinical research?

If you work in the NHS, most Trusts have R&D departments, who will put you in touch with the lead clinical research nurse: there may be opportunities to shadow, or do short-term work placements.

• National directory of NHS research offices

Research nursing across the UK

National Institute for Health Research

• The role of the clinical research nurse

Health and Social Care R&D Division

• HSC Trust research offices
• Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit
• Cross-border Healthcare Intervention Trials in Ireland Network (CHITIN)

Chief Scientist Office

• NHS Research Scotland (NRS)

Scottish Research Nurse and Co-ordinators Network

Health and Care Research Wales

• Clinical Trials Units

Organisational research structures and strategies

Publications which may help organisations to develop their own research infrastructure.

• Whitehouse, CL. And Smith, HA. (2018) The Whitehouse Report: Review of research nursing and midwifery structures, strategies and sharing of learning across the UK and Ireland in 2017. The Florence Nightingale Foundation .
• Jones, HC. (2017) Exploring the experience of Clinical Research Nurses working within acute NHS trusts and determining the most effective way to structure the workforce: A mixed methods study .

Further reading

A selection of articles about research nursing.

• Tinkler L. Smith V. Tuannakou Y and Robinson L. (2017) Professional Identity and the clinical research nurse: A qualitative study exploring issues having an impact on participant recruitment in research . Journal of Advanced Nursing
• Jones H.C. (2015) Clinical research nurse or nurse researcher? Nursing Times. 111(19) 12-14
• Hamer S. (2015) The nurse's changing role in clinical research . Nursing Times. 111(39) 12-14
• Gleason K (2013) What is a Research Nurse and what do they do? Clinfield Blog

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How to become a clinical research nurse

• How to become a clinical…

A clinical research nurse (CRN), also known as a clinical trial nurse or research coordinator, is a registered nurse (RN) who possesses advanced knowledge and skills in both clinical nursing and research methodologies (Australian College of Nursing, 2022). The role involves collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to conduct clinical trials or research projects, collect and analyse data, and ensure ethical and safe execution of research protocols (Lonn et al., 2022). The aim is to advance medical knowledge, improve patient experience, and contribute to the development of new treatments and interventions (Hernon et al., 2020).

From 2022-23, the Australian Government has committed to investing $6.8 billion in medical research over four years (Australian Government Department of Health, 2022). Additionally, as part of the Clinical Trials Activity initiative, $750 million will be allocated over the decade from 2022-23 to 2031-32 (Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, 2023). It leads to a heightened demand for RNs specialising in the field of clinical trial and research. Some RNs are showing a keen interest in transitioning to CRNs. However, transitioning from an RN to a CRN requires careful preparation and adjustment. Here are some tips that RNs can follow to facilitate the transition:

Research the role of CRN

Thoroughly researching the role of CRN is crucial before making the transition. This involves conducting in-depth investigations into the responsibilities, requirements, and expectations associated with the role. It includes exploring the duties such as coordinating clinical trials, ensuring participant safety and ethical standards, adherence to regulatory requirements, collecting and analysing data, and academic writing (Xing et al., 2024). Additionally, researching the educational and experience qualifications necessary for CRNs, as well as career pathways and professional development resources, can provide valuable insights.

Assess skills and interests

It is essential to evaluate current skills because clinical research involves a different set of skills compared to bedside nursing. CRNs need to possess knowledge of pharmacology and clinical expertise, research methodologies including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches, along with understanding sampling techniques, data collection methods, and ethical consideration (Xing et al., 2024). Strong communication skills are fundamental for CRNs to effectively collaborate with colleagues and engage with research participants (Australian College of Nursing, 2022). Additionally, academic writing skills are needed for CRNs to contribute to research reports and publications, ensuring the dissemination of research findings to the scientific community.

It is also crucial for RNs to assess their interest within nursing and research. It involves reflecting on one’s experiences and passions, considering the areas of health care or nursing that resonate the most and where skills are most effectively utilised. This could include clinical specialties such as oncology, cardiology, paediatrics, or mental health, as well as broader interests like patient experience, healthcare disparities or quality improvement.

Pursue further education

Transitioning from an RN to a CRN can be achieved through further education, including degrees such as Bachelor of Nursing (Honours), Master of Nursing with a research concentration, or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing. Furthermore, certificate programs, continuing education courses, workshops, seminars, online learning platforms, research internships and specialised training programs offer avenues to acquire essential skills in research.

Gain relevant experience

There are a few ways for RNs to gain relevant experience in clinical research. One approach is to seek out research projects or clinical trials within one’s current workplace and actively engage with these programs. Additionally, RNs can volunteer for research-related tasks or projects to gain hands-on experience. Furthermore, RNs can seek research experience through further education opportunities. This may involve working as a research assistant, research fellow, or completing internships at research institutions or healthcare organisations.

Network with researchers

Networking with professionals in the clinical research field is crucial for gaining insights into the industry and exploring potential job opportunities. One effective way to network is by attending conferences, workshops, seminars and social events. Additionally, joining professional groups such as Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Clinical Research Nurses Faculty allows RNs to connect with peers in the field of research, access resources and educational opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn also offer opportunities to connect and build up relationships with professionals in the field.

Seek mentorship

Seeking mentorship from experienced nursing researchers is invaluable for RNs transitioning to clinical research roles. Mentors offer guidance, share their experiences, and provide valuable insights into the field. They can also help navigate the complexities of clinical research, offer advice on career development, and provide networking opportunities within the field (Government of Western Australia Department of Health, 2017). ACN provides members with access to career mentoring and the dedicated Emerging Research Leader (ERL) program . The ERL program pairs RNs with senior nurse researchers for a nine-month period, fostering their development in the field of nursing research (Australian College of Nursing, 2024).

Seek job opportunities and apply

The next step will be actively searching for job opportunities in clinical trials and research projects. It is essential to customize the application to demonstrate a genuine passion and commitment to the role of CRN. This involves highlighting relevant experiences, skills and qualifications related to clinical trials or research projects in the resume and cover letter.

The transition from a RN in an acute care setting to a CRN presents a promising opportunity. As the demand for CRNs continues to grow, RNs who choose to embrace this transition need approach it with careful preparation and adaptability. By following these tips and committing to ongoing professional development, RNs can achieve a successful transition to CRNs and flourish in their new career path.

Author: Lele Xu MACN

Lele Xu MACN is an ACN Emerging Nurse Leader and a registered nurse at Monash Health, Melbourne. With over a decade of experience as a lecturer and researcher in China, Lele’s journey in academia is well-established. Her passion for both nursing and education drives her, as she takes joy in aiding fellow nurses to reach their utmost potential. Looking ahead, Lele’s career aspiration lies in becoming a dedicated nurse educator. You can connect with Lele through ACN’s Clinical Research Nurses Faculty and on Linkedin .

Australian College of Nursing. (2022). Clinical research nurse (CRN): Australian standard for practice. https://www.acn.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/clinical-research-nurse-standards.pdf

Australian College of Nursing. (2024). Emerging research leader program. https://www.acn.edu.au/leadership/emerging-research-leader-program

Australian Government Department of Health. (2022). Life saving research – Funding for medical research. https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2022/03/budget-2022-23-funding-for-medical-research.docx

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). Clinical trials activity initiative. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/mrff-clinical-trials-activity-initiative

Government of Western Australia Department of Health. (2017). Mentorship. 

Hernon, O., Dalton, R., & Dowling, M. (2020). Clinical research nurses’ expectations and realities of their role: A qualitative evidence synthesis. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 29(5-6), 667-683. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.15128

Lonn, B.B., Hornsten, A., Styrke, J., & Hajdarevic, S. (2022). Transitioning to clinical research nurse role – A qualitative descriptive study. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 78(11), 3817-3829. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15397

Xing, Y., Wang, X., Zhang, C., Yuan, W., Chen, X., & Luan, W. (2024). Characteristics and duties of clinical research nurses: A scoping review. Frontiers in Medicine, 11, 1333230. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2024.1333230

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Home / Nursing Careers & Specialties / Research Nurse

Research Nurse

What is a Research Nurse?

Research nurses conduct scientific research into various aspects of health, including illnesses, treatment plans, pharmaceuticals and healthcare methods, with the ultimate goals of improving healthcare services and patient outcomes. Also known as nurse researchers, research nurses design and implement scientific studies, analyze data and report their findings to other nurses, doctors and medical researchers. A career path that requires an advanced degree and additional training in research methodology and tools, research nurses play a critical role in developing new, potentially life-saving medical treatments and practices.

How to Become a Research Nurse

A highly specialized career path, becoming a nurse researcher requires an advanced degree and training in informatics and research methodology and tools. Often, research nurses enter the field as research assistants or clinical research coordinators. The first step for these individuals, or for any aspiring advanced practice nurse, is to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited nursing school and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once a nurse has completed their degree and attained an RN license , the next step in becoming a research nurse is to complete a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) program focusing on research and writing. MSN-level courses best prepare nurses for a career in research, and usually include coursework in statistics, research for evidence-based practice, design and coordination of clinical trials, and advanced research methodology.

A typical job posting for a research nurse position would likely include the following qualifications, among others specific to the type of employer and location:

• MSN degree and valid RN license
• Experience conducting clinical research, including enrolling patients in research studies, implementing research protocol and presenting findings
• Excellent attention to detail required in collecting and analyzing data
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with patients and reporting research findings
• Experience in grant writing a plus

What Are the Schooling Requirements for Research Nurses?

The majority of nurse researchers have an advanced nursing degree, usually an MSN and occasionally a Ph.D. in Nursing . In addition to earning an RN license, research nurses need to obtain specialized training in informatics, data collection, scientific research and research equipment as well as experience writing grant proposals, research reports and scholarly articles. Earning a PhD is optional for most positions as a research nurse, but might be required to conduct certain types of research.

Are Any Certifications or Credentials Needed?

Aside from a higher nursing degree, such as an MSN or Ph.D. in Nursing, and an active RN license, additional certifications are often not required for work as a research nurse. However, some nurse researcher positions prefer candidates who have earned the Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) certification offered by the Society for Clinical Research Associates . In order to be eligible for this certification, candidates must have a minimum of two years' experience working in clinical research. The Association of Clinical Research Professionals also offers several certifications in clinical research, including the Clinical Research Associate Certification, the Clinical Research Coordinator Certification, and the Association of Clinical Research Professionals – Certified Professional Credential. These certifications have varying eligibility requirements but generally include a number of hours of professional experience in clinical research and an active RN license. Here’s a breakdown of the various certifications you can get as a research nurse:

What Does a Research Nurse Do?

A research nurse studies various aspects of the healthcare industry with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes. Nurse researchers have specialized knowledge of informatics, scientific research, and data collection and analysis, in addition to their standard nursing training and RN license. Nurse researchers often design their own studies, secure funding, implement their research, and collect and analyze their findings. They may also assist in the recruitment of study participants and provide direct patient care for participants while conducting their research. Once a research project has been completed, nurse researchers report their findings to other nurses, doctors, and medical researchers through written articles, research reports, and/or industry speaking opportunities.

Where Do Research Nurses Work?

Nurse researchers work in a variety of settings, including:

• Medical research organizations
• Research laboratories
• Universities
• Pharmaceutical companies

What Are the Roles and Duties of a Research Nurse?

• Design and implement research studies
• Observe patient care of treatment or procedures, and collect and analyze data, including managing databases
• Report findings of their research, which may include presenting findings at industry conferences, meetings, or other speaking engagements
• Write grant applications to secure funding for studies
• Publish articles and research reports in nursing or medical professional journals or other publications
• Assist in the recruitment of participants for studies and provide direct patient care for participants

Research Nurse Salary & Employment

The Society of Clinical Research Associates reported a median salary for research nurses of $72,009 in their SoCRA 2015 Salary Survey , one of the highest-paying nursing specializations in the field. Salary levels for nurse researchers can vary based on the type of employer, geographic location and the nurse's education and experience level. Healthcare research is a growing field, so the career outlook is bright for RNs interested in pursuing an advanced degree and a career in research. Here’s a full range of salaries you can expect as a research nurse, according to ZipRecruiter.

Helpful Organizations, Societies, and Agencies

• National Institute of Nursing Research
• Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science
• International Association of Clinical Research Nurses
• Nurse Researcher Magazine

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A Guide to Becoming a Clinical Research Nurse

The role of a clinical research nurse can be rewarding, but it’s not without challenges. Find out more about the role of a clinical research nurse and what it takes to become one in our guide.

Courtesy of Getty Images

Maybe you’re a nurse who would also like to be more involved in the clinical research process. Or maybe you’re a nurse who also wants to ensure the highest standard of care for patients in research trials.

If either of these things are true for you, then you might have what it takes to become a clinical research nurse.

Clinical research nurses are an integral part of the research process. They are essentially the managers of the most important part of any medical research: the trial patients themselves.

The role can be very rewarding, both mentally and financially. It’s not without its challenges, however, and that is something everyone who wants to be a clinical research nurse should take into account.

To help with this decision, BioSpace has outlined the role of a clinical research nurse, its ups and downs, and what it takes to become part of this crucial role.

What is a Clinical Research Nurse?

A clinical research nurse is responsible for the direct care of patients who are participants in clinical trials. These trials could involve anything from testing new treatments to researching novel approaches to human health.

The clinical research nurse is responsible for administering treatment, collecting data from test results and ensuring that the care, best interests and confidentiality of their patients are maintained at all times.

In this way, the role seems similar to that of a traditional nurse. There are a few key differences, however. The role of the clinical research nurse also involves:

• Greater involvement in the research process. A clinical research nurse may be involved in designing the actual clinical trial. He or she may also be asked to help design patient protocols for future trials as well. The clinical research nurse may also be involved in the initial screening process for selecting patients for trials.
• An understanding of how clinical research works. A clinical research nurse requires in-depth knowledge of the clinical research process itself. This means he or she must understand how trials are designed, how treatments are administered and how conclusions are drawn from the results.
• Maintaining confidentiality of both the patient and the project. In addition to maintaining the confidentiality of their patients, the clinical research nurse must also maintain the confidentiality of the entire research project as well.

Clinical research nurses may work out of typical nursing settings, such as hospitals and long-term care facilities. However, they are just as likely to work out of biotech laboratories or university research centers. Depending on the type of study, their patients may be day patients or inpatients at various care centers.

Pros of Becoming a Clinical Research Nurse

• It’s an integral role in developing better patient care. Clinical research nurses are involved with more than the care of their patients. They’re also helping to develop new treatments and better research that could one day help future patients. For this reason, clinical research nurses usually find their work very rewarding.
• Compensation is competitive. Clinical research nurses often receive higher salaries than traditional nurses. While the median annual salary of a registered nurse in the US is $ 93,089, the median annual salary of a clinical research nurse is $116,2992.
• The need for clinical research nurses will continue to grow. As the US population ages, the need for more medical research will increase. This means the need for more clinical research nurses will increase as well. Anyone with the qualifications to become a clinical research nurse should have no trouble finding work.

Cons of Becoming a Clinical Research Nurse

• Patient advocacy may be a source of stress. In clinical research situations, the pressure may be on to ensure the research can be completed on time. In these cases, the clinical research nurse may need to step up and speak on behalf of their patients.
• Drugs administered are not always FDA-approved. Because clinical research nurses work in clinical trials, many of the drugs they administer to patients may be experimental. Someone who is not comfortable with this may want to consider a different career.

Regardless of the impact on the study itself, the clinical research nurse’s patients must be their top priority. If patient advocacy is not a source of stress for you, then this should be of little to no issue.

Necessary Skills and Experience

The basic requirements of a clinical research nurse are similar to traditional nurses. A bachelor’s degree in nursing, biology or a similar discipline is required. Most job postings require a current state license as a registered nurse as well.

Many clinical research centers require at least some experience in a research setting. This can be gained by applying for roles as a clinical research assistant first. Once enough experience is gained in this type of role, nurses can apply for clinical research nursing positions.

Nurses may also want to consider earning a master’s of science in nursing in order to qualify for top-paying clinical research nursing positions.

Clinical research companies also look for several crucial soft skills. Good communication skills, the ability to be well-organized at all times and an innate sense of ethics are all important in a clinical nursing role.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re a caring and compassionate nurse who also has a strong desire to improve medical care for the future, then a role as a clinical research nurse may be the perfect fit for you.

If you’re ready to start applying, be sure to check out BioSpace ’s current job postings for clinical research nurses.

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Oncology Clinical Research Nurse Competencies

Nurses play many roles in clinical trials, most commonly as direct care providers or study coordinators. The direct care provider’s primary responsibility is clinical care for patients on research studies. Their responsibilities with clinical trials can vary widely but may include reinforcement of the informed consent process by providing patient and caregiver education, finding information about clinical trials for patients, advocating for ethical care for research participants, administering investigational drugs, collecting biospecimens, and monitoring for side effects.

Who Can Use the Role-Specific Core Competencies?

• Novice nurses who are identifying the qualifications they should possess or acquire during their first one to two years in a role
• Experienced practitioners who are standardizing the expectations and requirements of a role
• Administrators and institutions who are developing position descriptions, training methods and materials, evaluation processes, and personal or professional development tools
• Nurses who are curious about how their position compares to ONS-developed role descriptions   

Our other competencies transcend specific roles to define the required skills and responsibilities all oncology nurses need to transform nursing and cancer care. These competencies empower the oncology nursing profession at multiple levels.

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Clinical Research Nurse Roles

Health Care Technician The Health Care Technician is a certified nursing assistant in the state of Maryland or has completed the Fundamentals of Nursing course work in a current accredited nursing program.  This role supports the activities of the professional nurse by providing patient care functions to assigned patients while maintaining a safe environment.

Patient Care Technician The Patient Care Technician is a certified nursing assistant in the state of Maryland who supports the activities of the professional nurse by independently providing patient care functions to assigned patients while maintaining a safe environment.

Clinical Research Nurse I The Clinical Research Nurse (CRN) I has a nursing degree or diploma from a professional nursing program approved by the legally designated state accrediting agency.  The CRN I is a newly graduated registered nurse with 6 months or less of clinical nursing experience.  The incumbent functions under the direction of an experienced nurse to provide patient care, while using professional judgment and sound decision making.

Clinical Research Nurse II The CRN II has a nursing degree or diploma from a professional nursing program approved by the legally designated state accrediting agency and has practiced nursing at the NIH Clinical Center for at least 6 months.  This nurse independently provides nursing care; identifies and communicates the impact of the research process on patient care; adjusts interventions based on findings; and reports issues/variances promptly to the research team. The CRN II administers research interventions; collects patient data according to protocol specifications; evaluates the patient response to therapy; and integrates evidence-based practice into nursing practice. The CRN II contributes to teams, workgroups and the nursing shared governance process.  New skills and knowledge are acquired that are based on self-assessment, feedback from peers and supervisors, and changing clinical practice requirements.

Clinical Research Nurse III The CRN III has a nursing degree or diploma from a professional nursing program approved by the legally designated state accrediting agency at the time the program was completed by the applicant.

The CRN III has practiced nursing at the NIH Clinical Center for at least 1 year.  The role spans the professional nursing development from “fully competent” to “expert” nursing practice.  The CRN III provides care to acute and complex patient populations, and utilizes appropriate professional judgment and critical decision making in planning and providing care. S/he masters all nursing skills and associated technology for a particular Program of Care and assists in assessing the competency of less experienced nurses. The CRN III participates in the planning of new protocol implementation on the patient care unit; administers research interventions; collects patient data according to protocol specifications; evaluates the patient’ response to therapy; responds to variances in protocol implementation; reports variances to the research team; integrates evidence-based practice into nursing practice; and evaluates patient outcomes. The CRN III assumes the charge nurse and preceptor roles as assigned. Formal and informal feedback is provided by the CRN III to peers and colleagues in support of individual growth and improvement of the work environment.

Senior Clinical Research Nurse The Senior CRN has a nursing degree or diploma from a professional nursing program approved by the legally designated state accrediting agency at the time the program was completed by the applicant.

The Senior CRN serves as a leader in all aspects of nursing practice. S/he demonstrates expertise in the nursing process; professional judgment and decision making; planning and providing nursing care; and knowledge of the biomedical research process.  The Senior CRN utilizes basic leadership principles and has an ongoing process of questioning and evaluating nursing practice. 

The Senior CRN may have one of three foci:

Specialty Practice- as a clinical expert for a designated patient population or program of care Management- Clinical Manager     The Senior CRN-Clinical Manager (CM) is an experienced staff nurse who collaborates with the Nurse Manager and other departmental leadership to assist with operations and management of a patient care area. The CM supervises the delivery of high quality patient care and assures the appropriate use of resources (i.e. staffing, rooms, etc.). The CM interacts with the research teams and support services to promote positive patient care outcomes and maintain protocol integrity. The CM models effective leadership, outstanding communication skills, while promoting a safe, supportive and professional environment. Education-  Clinical Educator     The Senior CRN-Clinical Educator (CE) is an experienced staff nurse who collaborates with the Nurse Manager and other departmental leadership to oversee educational needs of unit staff. The CE develops/coordinates/evaluates orientation for new unit staff, trains/mentors unit preceptors, serves as a liaison/resource for departmental/Clinical Center/professional educational opportunities, identifies educational needs, coordinates unit in-services, and plans unit educational days. The CE designs, implements and evaluates learning experiences for all staff levels to acquire, maintain, or increase their knowledge and competence. The Clinical Educator teaches at the unit and departmental level.

Nurse Manager The Nurse Manager has 3 to 5 years of recent management experience;  advanced preparation (Masters Degree) is preferred. The Nurse Manager has experience in change management, creative leadership and program development; an demonstrates strong communication and collaboration skills to foster an effective partnership with institute personnel.. The Nurse Manager demonstrates a high level of knowledge in a particular specialty practice area and utilizes advanced leadership skills to meet organization goals.

Clinical Nurse Specialist The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) has a Masters or Doctorate Degree in Nursing from a state-approved school of nursing accredited by either the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) with a major in the clinical nursing specialty to which the nurse is assigned.  The CNS has a minimum of 5 years experience, is certified in a specialty area, and is accountable for a specific patient population within a specialized program of care.

Nurse Consultant The Nurse Consultant serves as an expert advisor and program manager for a specific area of clinical administration or clinical practice management. The incumbent serves as liaison to Clinical Center departments and the ICs for issues related area of expertise and assigned responsibility and to provide communication and consultative services to all credentialed nurses at the Clinical Center.

Nurse Scientist The Nurse Scientist is a nurse with advanced preparation (PhD in nursing or related field) in research principles and methodology, who also has expert content knowledge in a specific clinical area. The primary focus of the role is to (1) provide leadership in the development, coordination and management of clinical research studies; (2) provide mentorship for nurses in research; (3) lead evaluation activities that improve outcomes for patients participating in research studies at the Clinical Center; and (4) contribute to the overall health sciences literature. The incumbent is expected to develop a portfolio of independent research that provides the vehicle for achieving these primary objectives.

Nurse Roles

Health Care Technician Patient Care Technician Clinical Research Nurse I Clinical Research Nurse II Clinical Research Nurse III Senior Clinical Research Nurse Clinical Manager Clinical Educator Nurse Manager Clinical Nurse Specialist Nurse Consultant Nurse Scientist

Clinical Research Training For Nurses: A Guide to Becoming a Clinical Research Nurse

Clinical research training for nurses, guide to becoming a clinical research nurse, what is clinical nursing research.

Nurses are known for providing direct care for patients. However, nurses may take up roles that are completely new to them within the world of clinical research. These roles include clinical research coordinator , educator and manager. They can also take up less traditional role like regulatory specialist, study monitor and IRB (institutional board review) admin.

Regulatory specialist: their activities relate mainly with preparing regulatory documents and communicating with regulatory bodies. Nurses can work as a regulatory affairs specialist, a regulatory operation coordinator, or a regulatory coordinator . They can work within government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centers.

Study monitor: they monitor clinical research practices and make sure that it complies with necessary research protocols and regulations. They tend work at government agencies, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, device manufacturers etc. Aspiring study monitors can enhance their qualifications with a Pharmacovigilance Certification .

Institutional Review Board (IRB) administrator: they are the professionals in charge of overseeing, administrating, implementing and managing IRB activities, like policies and procedures that relates to protecting human welfare. They can work at all IRBs: local, commercial or central IRB.

Nurses that have developed interest in the field of clinical research can join professional organizations. This provides them with the opportunity to network and continue their education through mediums like conferences, webinars, discussion groups, publications and online resources. These avenues serve as part of their clinical research training .

Certification is often a parameter used to measure professional expertise. This is based on criterion that reflects skill, knowledge, educational preparation, ability, and competence that are developed from experience in that area of specialization. Nurses that developed an interest in clinical research and have taken a clinical research training program have an opportunity to be certified through the:

Society for Clinical Research Professionals, Inc. (Certified Clinical Research Professionals)

Association for Clinical Research Professionals (Certified Clinical Research Associate or Certified Clinical Research Coordinator)

This field of clinical research gives nurses a chance, an opportunity to advance themselves professionally in a field that might not have been explored by them before. The benefits of having a registered nurse cover letter are insurmountable. This also provides a career path that can show family members the benefits of working in the medical field.

Nurses that have gone through the clinical research for nurses , otherwise called research nurse can carry out research on the various aspects of the human health, such as illness, pharmaceutical and health care methods and treatment plans. The main aim of this research is to improve the quality of health care service delivery. Helping patients and their family in a healthcare facility also brings a level of joy that is hard to find in many other career paths.

Roles of Research Nurses

They are responsible for designing and implementing research studies.

They observe procedures for treatment, collect and analyze data.

They report their research results to appropriate quarters.

They write articles and report their research findings in nursing or medical professional publications and journals.

They help in recruiting participants for studies and are involved in providing direct care for the participants.

Clinical research nurse salary can make use of their communication skills as well as their critical thinking skills gotten from their knowledge and experience in healthcare to further their career in this exciting way.

Know that future CRNs can speak to our 24/7 chat and phone advisors to request information on partial scholarships and payment plans for nurses.

2. Clinical Research Nurse Salary

The average pay for a Clinical Research Nurse is $31.28 per hour.

MD Anderson Cancer Center  Clinical Research Nurse salaries  - $71,503/yr

Northwestern University  Clinical Research Nurse salaries  - $75,005/yr

NIH  Clinical Research Nurse salaries  - $77,331/yr

CLINICAL RESEARCH NURSE JOB Description

A clinical research nurse conducts scientific research on different aspects of human health like illnesses, pharmaceuticals, treatment plans and healthcare methods. Their major goal is to improve the quality of healthcare services that are administered to the patients.

Source: Payscale

3. How do I get Clinical Research Nurse Experience?

Experience don’t just jump on you, you have to get it by practice. CCRPS affords you an opportunity to acquire knowledge in clinical research , and not just knowledge but experience as well. Registering for the appropriate course will boost your knowledge base and as well you get experience of clinical research first hand.

As a clinical research nurse, you will be at the forefront of new medical discoveries, and help develop breakthrough cures and medical treatments. The work that you do during your career can help some patients live longer or better quality of life. You may be responsible for studying diseases and disorders, as well as developing new treatment plans. You will also help test new treatments and medications that could possibly change the way a disease or disorder is perceived.

The field of clinical research can be very rewarding and fulfilling. A good research nurse is dedicated to their work and ready to take on everything that the profession throws their way. If you’re looking to pursue a research nursing career, you should have an excellent understanding of the research process as well as the specialty area that you’re studying.

Excellent communication skills are also a must. You must be able to effectively communicate with scientists, physicians, researchers, patients, and corporate executives.

4. What Does a Clinical Research Nurse Do?

The duties of a research nurse will typically depend on their employer and role. Some research nurses may be responsible for studying diseases, while others may help create and improve new medications and other treatments.

clinical research nursing scope and Standards of Practice

Clinical research nurses can take up clinical research jobs in institutions like research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, universities, research laboratories, government agencies and teaching hospitals.

The work that a research nurse does is quite exhaustive and it includes;

They use their knowledge of the basics of clinical research in designing and implementation of research studies.

Observation of the procedures for patient treatment, collection and analyzing of data.

They report their research findings to the relevant authorities. They may also have to present their results at health conferences and publish them in journals.

They write grant applications in order to secure funds to carry out the research.

They render assistance in the process of recruiting study subjects.

They provide direct treatment for research participants.

Research nurses that study diseases and illnesses will often perform a great deal of research, both by studying previous findings and observing patients. They may be required to examine medical journals, for instance, as well as observe, study, and care for patients suffering from a particular disease.

They make decisions based on the observations made as to which patients are the best candidates for certain clinical trials. During clinical trials , the research nurse will administer medications or perform other treatment procedures, During this process, research nurses must closely monitor each patient’s progress. This includes documenting side effects, drug interactions, and the overall efficiency of the medication.

Aside from caring for patients, documenting and recording information during clinical trials are the most important responsibility that a research nurse has. The information and data gathered during the research must be compiled into reports and handed over to senior clinical researchers or specialists.

5. How Do I Become a Research Nurse?

Don’t expect to become a research nurse overnight. It's a lot of work and you are expected to undergo years of training and experience.

The clinical research nurse job is a competitive one and certificates are not just handed out to anybody. The conditions to be eligible to take the certificate exam is that you must be an experienced registered nurse and your experience must include having thousands of hours of experience in the area of clinical research.

How to Become a Registered Nurse (RN) in 2020 that contains everything a person pursuing a nursing job should know - responsibilities, education, salaries and more.

The first step toward becoming a research nurse is to obtain a proper education. You can start with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, although many employers prefer that their research nurses have master’s degrees or even doctoral degrees in their chosen specialty. During your schooling, classes in research and statistics are a must and are courses in your chosen area of expertise.

According to clinical research job websites , many research nurses have a MSN degree and some have a PhD in nursing. Many of them attain these degrees of education in order to give them an edge on getting clinical research positions . While studying, courses in statistics and research are mandatory.

There are two main certifications that clinical research nurses can get from the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). You can get certification to become a certified clinical research associate or you can choose to become a certified clinical research coordinator.

Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research nurse.

Discover more from Clinical Research Training | Certified Clinical Research Professionals Course

6. Clinical Research Nurse Requirements and Certifications & Nursing Cover Letter

A bachelor's degree in nursing does meet licensure requirements for graduates to become registered nurses (RNs), which qualifies individuals for the specialized certification. Bridge programs, such as an RN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), require previous nursing education for admission. Nursing students complete traditional classroom courses, laboratory experiences, and a clinical practicum in a medical setting, which includes a hospital, assisted living facility, and long term care center.

For specific education in clinical research , trained RNs enroll in graduate certificate and degree programs. There students are introduced to case studies, ethical research practices, and financial matters affecting the design, implementation, and funding of clinical research trials. In a master's program, studies in research ethics point students towards ethical research practices, including a discussion on human rights, misconduct, and conflicts of interest. Graduate programs will also include quantitative research and a capstone project.

All RN-to-BSN programs will require an RN license to enroll. Master's and graduate certificates will need a bachelor's degree with sufficient prerequisite coursework in the field. In addition, they will need letters of recommendation or reference, a personal statement, and GRE scores.

Becoming a nurse researcher which is a highly specialized career requires an advanced degree and training in informatics and research methodology and tools. The initial step for these individuals, or for any aspiring advanced practice nurse, is to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once a nurse has completed their degree and attained an RN license, the next step is to complete a Master's of Science (MSN) in Nursing program with a focus on research and writing. MSN courses prepare nurses for a career in research and usually include coursework in statistics, research for evidence-based practice, design and coordination of clinical trials , and advanced research methodology.

A TYPICAL JOB POSTING FOR A RESEARCH NURSE POSITION WOULD LIKELY INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS, AMONG OTHERS SPECIFIC TO THE TYPE OF EMPLOYER AND LOCATION:

MSN degree and valid RN license.

Experience conducting clinical research, including enrolling patients in research studies, Implementing research protocol and presenting findings.

Excellent attention to detail required in collecting and analyzing data.

Strong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with patients and reporting research findings.

For a person to practice nursing legally, acquiring of nursing credentials and certifications is very important. For instance, some nurses who achieve a master's degree (MSN) leave the patient care aspect of nursing, and practice in a more managerial role.

CRA JOB OPPORTUNITIES

If you choose to become a Clinical Research Associate (CRA), you will have a key role in the success of clinical trials. Most CRAs have a nursing background, like yours. You will be the primary contact and support for trial sites, ensuring that the study is conducted according to the protocol, ICH-GCP, regulatory requirements and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The Clinical Research Associates also offers you the unique opportunity to have an exciting career in the research of drug and medical device development while making a difference in the lives of those around them.

Take courses from CCRPS and learn more on how to become a clinical research professional.

Speak to our 24/7 chat and phone advisors to request information on partial scholarships and payment plans for nurses.

About CCRPS

How much is a clinical research coordinator’s salary.

Clinical Nurse Peer Review: A Process That Works for the Nurse and the Organization

Affiliation.

• 1 Author Affiliations: Medication Safety Nurse Specialist (Ethington), Medical and Surgical Oncology Nurse (Edwards), and Clinical Nurse Specialist (Reames), Department of Nursing, Nebraska Medicine, Omaha.
• PMID: 39028563
• DOI: 10.1097/NNA.0000000000001450

Clinical peer review is a strategy that engages nurses in elevating not only the safety of patients but also their influence on practice. There is little guidance in the literature about how to operationalize peer review in a way that promotes just culture. In a postpandemic era, where nurse engagement and retention are low, this article describes how to implement and measure the impact of clinical peer review on practice trends and empower nurses to influence system-wide change.

Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

• COVID-19 / nursing
• Nursing Staff, Hospital
• Organizational Culture
• Peer Review*

Top 12 Research Nurse Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the highly specialized field of research nursing, showcasing a tailored set of skills on your resume can significantly elevate your marketability to potential employers. This article outlines the top 12 skills that research nurses should highlight to demonstrate their adeptness in clinical research, patient care, and data management, setting the foundation for a successful career in this dynamic healthcare sector.

Research Nurse Skills

• EHR (Electronic Health Records)
• SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences)
• Clinical Monitoring
• Patient Recruitment
• GCP (Good Clinical Practice)
• IRB Submissions
• Data Analysis
• Protocol Development
• Informed Consent
• Patient Education
• CPR/BLS Certification

1. Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is the process of making an incision in a vein with a needle to collect blood samples for medical testing, transfusions, or research purposes, including tasks often performed by a Research Nurse to obtain specimens for study analyses.

Why It's Important

Phlebotomy is crucial for a Research Nurse as it enables the collection of blood samples for analysis, helping in the diagnosis, monitoring, and research of medical conditions, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments.

How to Improve Phlebotomy Skills

Improving phlebotomy skills, especially for a Research Nurse, involves continuous education, practice, and adherence to best practices for patient safety and comfort. Here are concise strategies:

Stay Updated : Engage in ongoing education and training. Organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offer resources and certifications.

Practice Technique : Regular hands-on practice, possibly through workshops or simulations, improves skill and confidence. Facilities like the Simulated Learning Centers in healthcare institutions provide realistic training environments.

Use of Technology : Incorporate vein visualization technology to improve success rates in difficult venipunctures. Products like AccuVein can assist.

Follow Guidelines : Adhere to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines for phlebotomy to ensure consistency and safety in blood collection practices.

Patient Communication : Enhance communication skills to better prepare and reassure patients, reducing anxiety and improving the overall experience. The Institute for Healthcare Communication offers insights on effective communication strategies.

Peer Review and Feedback : Engage in peer review sessions where techniques and experiences are shared. This encourages learning from real-life scenarios and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

By integrating these strategies, Research Nurses can enhance their phlebotomy skills, contributing to more efficient and patient-centered care.

How to Display Phlebotomy Skills on Your Resume

2. EHR (Electronic Health Records)

EHR (Electronic Health Records) is a digital version of a patient's paper chart, used by healthcare providers to record, manage, and share patient health information securely, facilitating improved patient care and research data accuracy.

EHRs are crucial for research nurses as they facilitate efficient access to comprehensive patient data, enabling precise monitoring, improved patient care, and streamlined data collection for research, ultimately enhancing healthcare outcomes and advancing medical knowledge.

How to Improve EHR (Electronic Health Records) Skills

Improving Electronic Health Records (EHRs) involves several key strategies, especially from the perspective of a Research Nurse. Here are concise recommendations:

Enhance User Interface (UI) Design : Simplify the UI to make navigation and data entry more intuitive for clinical staff. HealthIT.gov offers guidelines on usability to improve EHR systems.

Implement Standardized Data Entry : Use standardized terminology and data entry formats to ensure consistency and accuracy. The LOINC system for lab results and the SNOMED CT for clinical terms are valuable resources.

Ensure Interoperability : Facilitate the seamless exchange of information between different EHR systems and healthcare providers. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) provides standards and resources for promoting interoperability.

Incorporate Decision Support Tools : Integrate clinical decision support tools to assist research nurses in making evidence-based decisions. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has resources on integrating these tools into EHRs.

Enhance Data Security : Protect patient information through robust data encryption and access controls. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes standards for patient data protection.

Offer Training and Support : Provide ongoing training and support to ensure that research nurses can effectively use EHR systems. Tailored training materials can be found through The American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) .

Utilize Patient Portals : Encourage the use of patient portals to improve patient engagement and self-management. Insights on effective implementation can be found on HealthIT.gov’s Patient Engagement Playbook .

By focusing on these areas, research nurses can significantly contribute to the enhancement of EHR systems, thereby improving patient care and research outcomes.

How to Display EHR (Electronic Health Records) Skills on Your Resume

3. SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences)

SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) is a software tool used for data management, statistical analysis, and graphical representation of data, widely utilized in healthcare research to analyze complex datasets and derive evidence-based conclusions.

SPSS is important for a Research Nurse because it offers a user-friendly platform for managing, analyzing, and interpreting complex healthcare data, enabling evidence-based decision-making and improved patient outcomes.

How to Improve SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) Skills

Improving your proficiency with SPSS as a Research Nurse involves a mix of foundational understanding, practice, and seeking out resources that cater to your specific needs in healthcare research. Here’s a concise guide:

Understand the Basics : Start with understanding the fundamentals of statistics and how SPSS operates. IBM's official SPSS tutorials can provide a solid foundation.

Practice with Relevant Data : Apply what you've learned by practicing with datasets. You can find healthcare-related datasets on Kaggle or through government databases like CDC to practice on real-world examples.

Utilize Online Courses : Platforms like Coursera offer SPSS courses tailored to various levels of expertise. Look for courses that focus on healthcare or scientific research to stay relevant to your field.

Join SPSS Forums : Engage with communities such as the IBM SPSS Community or ResearchGate. These platforms allow you to ask questions, share insights, and learn from the challenges and solutions of others in your field.

Explore Advanced Features : As you become more comfortable, delve into SPSS’s advanced features like predictive modeling and syntax scripting for automation. IBM provides resources and guides on advanced techniques.

Seek Feedback : Regularly consult with colleagues or mentors who are experienced in SPSS or statistical analysis. Peer review can offer insights and tips tailored to your specific research needs.

By systematically working through these steps and integrating SPSS into your regular research activities, you'll enhance your proficiency, leading to more efficient and accurate data analysis in your nursing research projects.

How to Display SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) Skills on Your Resume

4. Clinical Monitoring

Clinical monitoring in the context of a Research Nurse involves overseeing and ensuring the integrity, safety, and compliance of a clinical trial. It includes verifying that the study is conducted according to the protocol, regulatory requirements, and good clinical practice, safeguarding the rights and well-being of participants, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data collected.

Clinical monitoring is essential to ensure the safety, rights, and well-being of participants are protected, and that the data collected in clinical trials are accurate, reliable, and verifiable. For a Research Nurse, it involves continuously assessing and overseeing trial processes and patient care to maintain high-quality standards, compliance with protocols, and adherence to regulatory requirements.

How to Improve Clinical Monitoring Skills

Improving clinical monitoring, especially for a Research Nurse, involves enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and patient safety during clinical trials. Here are concise strategies:

Continued Education : Engage in ongoing training programs to stay updated with the latest clinical practices and monitoring technologies.

Adopt Technology : Utilize Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Clinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS) for better data management and real-time monitoring.

Effective Communication : Foster clear and consistent communication with the clinical trial team and participants. Tools like REDCap can streamline data collection and sharing.

Compliance and Ethics : Always adhere to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines to maintain ethical standards and regulatory compliance.

Risk Management : Implement a proactive risk management approach to identify and mitigate potential issues early in the trial process.

By focusing on these areas, research nurses can significantly contribute to the effectiveness and reliability of clinical monitoring.

How to Display Clinical Monitoring Skills on Your Resume

5. Patient Recruitment

Patient recruitment, in the context of a research nurse, involves identifying and enrolling suitable participants for clinical trials or studies to ensure the research objectives can be met effectively and ethically.

Patient recruitment is crucial in clinical research as it ensures a sufficient and diverse participant pool to validate study outcomes, enabling the development of effective treatments and advancements in healthcare. For a Research Nurse, effective patient recruitment directly impacts the study's progress, adherence to timelines, and overall success in achieving reliable and generalizable results.

How to Improve Patient Recruitment Skills

Improving patient recruitment involves strategic planning and effective communication to ensure the right participants are enrolled in clinical trials. Here's a concise guide tailored for a Research Nurse:

Understand the Study : Deeply understand the study criteria, objectives, and patient needs. This knowledge enables you to accurately identify and engage potential participants.

Engage with Potential Participants : Develop a clear, concise, and compelling way to communicate the study's purpose, benefits, and what participation involves. Personalized communication can increase interest and trust.

Leverage Technology : Utilize patient databases, electronic health records (EHRs), and social media to identify and reach out to potential participants. Platforms like ResearchMatch or ClinicalTrials.gov can also be useful resources.

Collaborate with Healthcare Professionals : Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to identify potential participants from their patient pools. Ensure they understand the study so they can accurately inform and refer their patients.

Community Engagement : Engage with local communities through health fairs, presentations, and social media. Building relationships with community leaders and groups can help reach potential participants.

Streamline the Process : Ensure the recruitment process is as simple and clear as possible for participants. Minimize paperwork, offer flexible scheduling, and provide clear instructions.

Follow Up : Maintain communication with potential participants through follow-up calls or emails. This keeps them engaged and allows you to address any concerns or questions they may have.

By focusing on clear communication, leveraging technology, and building strong relationships with healthcare professionals and the community, you can significantly improve patient recruitment for clinical trials.

How to Display Patient Recruitment Skills on Your Resume

6. GCP (Good Clinical Practice)

GCP (Good Clinical Practice) is a set of internationally recognized ethical and scientific quality standards for designing, conducting, recording, and reporting trials that involve the participation of human subjects. For a Research Nurse, GCP ensures the rights, safety, and well-being of trial participants are protected and that the trial data are accurate, reliable, and verifiable.

GCP is important for ensuring the safety, integrity, and rights of participants, as well as the credibility of clinical trial data, which is essential for a Research Nurse to conduct ethical and reliable studies.

How to Improve GCP (Good Clinical Practice) Skills

Improving Good Clinical Practice (GCP) as a Research Nurse involves several key strategies aimed at enhancing compliance, patient safety, and data integrity in clinical trials. Here’s a concise guide on how to improve GCP:

Stay Educated : Continuously update your GCP knowledge through certified training programs and workshops. GCP guidelines evolve, and staying informed is crucial.

Adhere to Protocols : Strictly follow study protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and reliability in data collection and patient care.

Ensure Informed Consent : Prioritize obtaining and documenting informed consent ethically and accurately, ensuring patients are fully aware of their participation scope.

Maintain Documentation : Keep comprehensive and accurate records according to ALCOA principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, and Accurate), facilitating audit processes and data verification.

Prioritize Patient Safety : Always monitor and report adverse events promptly, emphasizing patient safety and well-being as paramount. Familiarize yourself with the reporting protocols on the FDA’s adverse events page .

Engage in Continuous Quality Improvement : Regularly review and assess clinical practices for areas of improvement, engaging in quality improvement initiatives and audits to enhance GCP adherence.

Collaborate and Communicate : Work closely with the research team, fostering an environment of open communication and collaboration to address GCP-related challenges and share best practices.

By focusing on these areas, Research Nurses can significantly contribute to the integrity and success of clinical trials, ensuring that they are conducted in accordance with the highest standards of ethical and scientific rigor.

How to Display GCP (Good Clinical Practice) Skills on Your Resume

7. IRB Submissions

IRB submissions refer to the process of submitting a research proposal to an Institutional Review Board (IRB) for ethical review and approval before starting a study involving human subjects. For a Research Nurse, this entails ensuring that the planned research respects participants' rights, safety, and welfare and complies with regulatory requirements.

IRB submissions are crucial for a Research Nurse as they ensure the ethical and safe conduct of research involving human participants, protecting their rights and welfare throughout the study.

How to Improve IRB Submissions Skills

Improving Institutional Review Board (IRB) submissions involves a clear and thorough approach, ensuring that all necessary components for ethical review are effectively communicated. Here are concise strategies for a Research Nurse:

Understand Submission Requirements : Familiarize yourself with your IRB's specific submission requirements. This includes knowing the forms, checklists, and any electronic submission protocols. Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) provides general guidelines that can help.

Complete Training : Ensure you have current training on human subjects research ethics, such as the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Program . This will not only improve the quality of your submission but also demonstrate your competence to the IRB.

Pre-Submission Consultation : If your IRB offers pre-submission consultations, take advantage of this service. It allows you to clarify any questions and improve your submission proactively. Check your institution’s IRB website for consultation services.

Detailed Protocol : Provide a clear and detailed research protocol including objectives, methodology, participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis plans. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Protocol Template can serve as a helpful guide.

Informed Consent Documents : Ensure informed consent documents are clear, concise, and at an appropriate reading level for your participants. The Readability Test Tool can help assess the readability of your consent forms.

Risk Mitigation Strategies : Clearly outline potential risks to participants and the steps you will take to mitigate these risks. This demonstrates a thorough understanding of your study’s impact on participants.

Complete and Accurate Forms : Double-check that all forms are complete and accurately filled out. Incomplete or inaccurate forms are a common reason for IRB submission delays.

Check for Consistency : Ensure that all parts of your submission, including the protocol, consent forms, and recruitment materials, are consistent in describing the study’s purpose, procedures, and risks.

Seek Peer Review : Before submission, have a colleague review your application. Fresh eyes can catch errors or areas that need clarification.

Respond Promptly to IRB Queries : Once submitted, respond promptly and thoroughly to any queries or requests for additional information from the IRB.

By following these strategies, Research Nurses can improve the quality of their IRB submissions, potentially reducing the review time and facilitating a smoother approval process.

How to Display IRB Submissions Skills on Your Resume

8. Data Analysis

Data analysis in the context of a Research Nurse involves systematically examining, cleaning, and interpreting collected data to draw meaningful conclusions, identify patterns or trends, and inform evidence-based healthcare decisions and practices.

Data analysis is crucial for a Research Nurse as it enables the systematic interpretation of clinical data to improve patient care, inform evidence-based practices, and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and healthcare outcomes.

How to Improve Data Analysis Skills

Improving data analysis, especially for a Research Nurse, involves a combination of enhancing statistical skills, leveraging technology, and applying best practices in data management and interpretation. Here are concise strategies:

Strengthen Statistical Knowledge : Familiarize yourself with statistical software and methodologies relevant to your research area. Consider online courses from platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy's statistics and probability for foundational knowledge.

Utilize Data Analysis Software : Learn to use data analysis tools such as SPSS , R , or Python for more complex data manipulation and analysis.

Data Visualization : Master data visualization tools like Tableau or Microsoft Power BI to effectively communicate your findings.

Continuous Learning : Stay updated with the latest research and data analysis techniques in nursing research through journals and publications from sites like PubMed and Nursing Research .

Ethical Considerations and Accuracy : Adhere to ethical guidelines in data handling and analysis to ensure accuracy and reliability. Refer to The American Nurses Association (ANA) for standards and guidelines.

Collaborate and Seek Feedback : Engage with colleagues or use platforms like ResearchGate to discuss data analysis strategies and challenges specific to nursing research.

By focusing on these key areas, Research Nurses can significantly enhance their data analysis capabilities, contributing to more effective and impactful research outcomes.

How to Display Data Analysis Skills on Your Resume

9. Protocol Development

Protocol development, in the context of a research nurse, refers to the process of creating a detailed plan that outlines the study's objectives, methodology, participant care, and data management procedures to ensure the research is conducted safely, ethically, and effectively.

Protocol development is crucial for a Research Nurse as it ensures the safety, consistency, and integrity of clinical trials, guiding every aspect of the study from participant selection to data analysis, thereby protecting participants and producing reliable, valid results.

How to Improve Protocol Development Skills

Improving protocol development in research nursing involves enhancing the design, implementation, and management of research protocols to ensure they are efficient, ethical, and capable of yielding reliable, actionable results. Here's a concise guide:

Stay Informed : Continuously update your knowledge on the latest research methodologies and ethical guidelines. NIH Clinical Research Trials and You is a valuable resource.

Collaborate Effectively : Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration. Utilize platforms like ResearchGate to connect with other professionals.

Understand Regulations : Have a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and ensure compliance. The FDA's Clinical Trials and Human Subject Protection provides essential guidelines.

Adopt Technology : Utilize digital tools and software for protocol management, such as REDCap for secure data management.

Enhance Participant Engagement : Focus on participant-centered approaches to improve recruitment and retention. The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute offers insights into patient-engaged research.

Continuous Education : Invest in your professional development through courses and certifications in clinical research. Coursera and edX offer courses on clinical trial design and management.

By incorporating these strategies, research nurses can significantly contribute to the development of effective and ethical research protocols, ultimately advancing the quality and impact of clinical research.

How to Display Protocol Development Skills on Your Resume

10. Informed Consent

Informed consent is a process through which research participants are given comprehensive information about a study, including its purpose, duration, procedures, risks, benefits, and their rights, ensuring they voluntarily agree to participate with a clear understanding of their role and the research implications. For a research nurse, it involves clearly explaining this information to participants and ensuring they understand it before obtaining their written consent to participate.

Informed consent is crucial for a research nurse as it ensures participants are fully aware of the research's nature, procedures, risks, and benefits, thereby respecting their autonomy and right to make an informed decision about their participation. This process protects both the participants' welfare and the integrity of the research.

How to Improve Informed Consent Skills

Improving informed consent, particularly from a Research Nurse's perspective, involves enhancing communication, understanding, and documentation processes to ensure participants are fully aware of what participation entails. Here are concise strategies:

Simplify Language : Use plain language, avoiding medical jargon, to ensure clarity. CDC’s Simply Put Guide provides tips on simplifying information.

Multimedia Tools : Incorporate videos or interactive digital content to explain the study details, catering to various learning styles. The NIH’s Clinical Trials website offers examples.

Iterative Process : Treat consent as an ongoing conversation rather than a one-time event. Continuous engagement allows for clarification and reassurance. The Hastings Center provides insights into ethical considerations, including consent as a process.

Cultural Sensitivity : Adapt communication to be culturally sensitive, respecting the participant's background and beliefs. The Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) offers guidelines on ethical standards in diverse settings.

Feedback Mechanism : Implement a mechanism for participants to ask questions and express concerns at any time, strengthening trust and transparency. The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) emphasizes patient engagement in research.

Documentation Tools : Utilize clear, concise consent forms and checklists to ensure all critical information is covered and understood. The FDA’s Informed Consent documents provide templates and guidelines.

By focusing on these areas, Research Nurses can significantly improve the informed consent process, making it more participant-friendly and ethically sound.

How to Display Informed Consent Skills on Your Resume

11. Patient Education

Patient education, in the context of a Research Nurse, involves informing and instructing participants about the details of clinical trials, including the study's purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits, to ensure they have a clear understanding and can make informed decisions about their participation.

Patient education is crucial as it empowers individuals to manage their health effectively, improves treatment adherence, reduces complications, and enhances patient outcomes. For a Research Nurse, it ensures informed consent, facilitates patient participation in clinical trials, and promotes understanding of research procedures and their potential impact on patient care.

How to Improve Patient Education Skills

Improving patient education, especially in a research nursing context, involves clear communication, tailored information, and the use of diverse educational tools. Here are concise strategies:

Understand Your Audience : Assess the patient's literacy, health literacy, and learning preferences. This foundational step ensures the information provided is accessible and comprehensible. Health Literacy Out Loud offers insights into understanding patient needs.

Use Plain Language : Simplify medical jargon into everyday language. Tools like the CDC's Clear Communication Index provide guidelines for creating clear and understandable health messages.

Incorporate Visual Aids : Visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and videos can enhance understanding and retention. The use of patient education technology, like Understand.com , offers a variety of medical animations and explanations.

Personalize Education : Tailor information to the individual's condition, treatment plan, and concerns. Personalized education increases relevance and engagement. Resources like Patient Education Institute's X-Plain offer customizable educational materials.

Reinforce Learning : Provide written materials or digital resources for review after the visit. Websites such as MedlinePlus offer accessible patient education materials on a wide range of health topics.

Evaluate Understanding : Use teach-back methods where the patient explains the information back to you in their own words to confirm understanding. The Always Use Teach-back! training toolkit is a valuable resource for learning how to effectively implement this technique.

Encourage Questions : Create an open environment where questions are welcomed. Providing a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) can also be helpful.

Follow-Up : Schedule follow-up interactions to address any ongoing questions or new concerns. This can be through phone calls, secure messaging, or additional appointments.

By implementing these strategies, research nurses can significantly enhance patient education, ensuring patients are well-informed, engaged, and empowered in their health care decisions.

How to Display Patient Education Skills on Your Resume

12. CPR/BLS Certification

CPR/BLS Certification for a Research Nurse signifies that the nurse is trained in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Basic Life Support (BLS), essential skills for providing immediate and effective responses to individuals experiencing cardiac or breathing emergencies. This certification ensures the nurse can perform lifesaving interventions until further medical treatment is available.

CPR/BLS certification is crucial for a Research Nurse as it equips them with the essential skills to promptly and effectively respond to cardiac and respiratory emergencies, ensuring the safety and potentially saving the lives of patients under their care during clinical trials or research settings.

How to Improve CPR/BLS Certification Skills

Improving your CPR/BLS certification as a Research Nurse involves staying current with the latest guidelines, practicing regularly, and adapting your skills to diverse clinical scenarios. Here’s a concise guide:

Stay Updated : Regularly review the latest American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines or International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) recommendations for updates in CPR/BLS practices.

Continuous Education : Enroll in refresher courses or advanced life support training programs. Providers like the American Red Cross offer specialized courses that are often tailored to healthcare professionals.

Hands-On Practice : Participate in simulation-based training sessions. Utilizing manikins and simulation technology can enhance your practical skills and confidence. Look for opportunities at local hospitals or educational institutions.

Peer Learning : Engage in peer-led study groups or workshops to share experiences and techniques. This collaborative approach can introduce new perspectives and reinforce best practices.

Feedback and Reflection : After CPR/BLS scenarios, either in training or real-life situations, actively seek feedback from instructors or colleagues. Reflect on your performance and identify areas for improvement.

By focusing on these strategies, you can ensure your CPR/BLS skills are not only certified but also competent, responsive, and up-to-date.

How to Display CPR/BLS Certification Skills on Your Resume

Related Career Skills

• Clinical Research Nurse
• Research and Development Engineer
• Research Administrator
• Research Analyst
• Research Associate
• Research Biologist

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Clinical Research Nurse skills for your resume and career

A clinical research nurse requires a range of hard skills. These include direct patient care, such as assessments, monitoring, and medication administration. They must also be proficient in quality care, infection control, and patient safety. Additionally, they need to be knowledgeable in areas like oncology, acute care, and critical care. According to Wendy Robb Ph.D. , Dean & Professor at Cedar Crest College's School of Nursing, "nurses will require complex skills related to technology integration in healthcare" such as electronic health records and telehealth platforms.

Soft skills are equally important for a clinical research nurse. They must exhibit excellent interpersonal skills, professionalism, and the ability to work independently. They need to be adaptable and resilient in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. As Sara Hoeve Ph.D. , Director of Student Teaching and Teacher Certification at Hope College, points out, "education graduates have the advantage when job searching" and must "carefully research and ask questions about the school districts" to find a good fit.

15 clinical research nurse skills for your resume and career

1. patients.

Patients are individuals receiving medical care or treatment. Clinical research nurses interact with patients in various ways, such as administering therapeutic interventions, monitoring their conditions, and providing education on their care. They also assess patients, perform diagnostic tests, and initiate corrective actions. As Allyssa Harris , Dean and Professor at Prairie View A & M University, puts it, "Daily, nurses with the health care team to manage and coordinate patient care which include physical assessments-assessing, observing, and evaluating the patient's response to care, administering medication and treatments, assisting with procedures, and providing health education to patients and their families."

• Performed therapeutic nursing interventions, such as stabilizing patients, providing basic life support, administering medications and initiating corrective actions.
• Recorded medical histories, monitored patients, performed diagnostic tests and explained after-care to patients and/or family members.

BLS, or Basic Life Support, is a level of medical training that teaches individuals how to respond during emergencies such as cardiac arrests. Clinical research nurses use BLS in their jobs by maintaining their certification and often teaching it to others. They also use it in their daily work during emergency situations. According to Sophia Thomas , President of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, "The bureau of labor statistics (BLS) offers an excellent breakdown of salaries by region and state as well: [link]

• Certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and responsible for BLS certification of staff members and mock codes.
• Designed and implemented hospital wide and community American Heart Association Accredited BLS program from 1994-1996.

3. Acute Care

Acute care is a type of medical care provided to patients who are seriously ill, injured, or recovering from surgery. Clinical research nurses use acute care by developing, implementing, and evaluating individual patient care plans in medical-surgical settings. They also work in various areas of acute care, such as labor and delivery, and provide meaningful care to patients suffering from dementia and related psychological disorders. As Associate Professor Michelle Hampton Ph.D. from San Jose State University notes, "Acute care settings are challenged with increased workload and understaffing. They are cross-training nurses from other departments to work in ICU or other places, for which they might not have the experience to meet the hospital's needs or organization."

• Provided quality patient care through development, implementation and evaluation of individual patient care plans in a medical/surgical/acute care hospital setting.
• Provided triage for acute care situation, direct nursing care medication and immunization administration to minors.

ACLS, or Advanced Cardiac Life Support, is a set of clinical interventions for cardiac arrest or other life-threatening cardiovascular emergencies. Clinical research nurses use ACLS to respond to emergency codes throughout hospitals, perform ACLS measures for trauma patients, and maintain certifications such as ACLS and PALS. As Clare Chambers, Assistant Professor of Nursing at Mars Hill University, puts it, "Skills that typically stand out on RN resumes include special certifications such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

• Perform duties of staff nurse; assisted in writing nursing care plans; carried out medical care plans; ACLS certified.
• Care of patients in the emergency department; maintained PALS, ACLS, TNCC, & CEN certifications

Surgery is a medical treatment that involves an operation to repair or remove damaged or diseased tissues and organs. Clinical research nurses use surgery in their job by providing care to patients before, during, and after the operation. They prepare patients for surgery, assist surgeons and anesthesiologists during the procedure, and provide post-operative care. They also coordinate all clinical aspects of ambulatory surgery centers and assist with in-office procedures and treatments.

• Provided complete nursing care for patient populations undergoing procedures related to abdominal surgery, multiple trauma, oncology, and peritoneal dialysis
• Administered pain medication through intravenous, oral or subcutaneous injection to recovering patients in the immediate post-operative period of surgery.

6. Quality Care

Quality care is the provision of health services that meet the needs of patients safely, effectively, and efficiently. Clinical research nurses use quality care by providing health education, developing care plans, and analyzing trends to identify high-risk areas. They also supervise support staff to ensure optimal quality care and collaborate with other professionals to deliver safe and high-quality care. As Gloria Boseman Ph.D. , Professor at New Jersey City University, puts it, "Deliver safe, quality care. It's your first job, not your forever job."

• Provided quality care to a variety of post-surgical and procedure patients receiving anesthesia using strong observation, assessment and intervention skills.
• Developed quality care systems and standards, including improvement of medical protocols and guidelines.

Choose from 10+ customizable clinical research nurse resume templates

7. critical care.

Critical care is the provision of life-sustaining treatments to patients who are critically ill. Clinical research nurses use critical care in their job by operating complex monitoring equipment, consulting with physicians on patient arrival and disposition, and providing leadership and guidance on technical issues. They also develop and teach critical care nursing orientation programs and provide direct patient care on telemetry units. As Natalie Heywood DNP, RN, CNE , Clinical Assistant Professor at Arizona State University, puts it, "ICU nurses earning their Critical Care Certified Nurse (CCRN) can increase their salary potential."

• Completed 21 hours of continuing education in obstetric assessment, electronic fetal monitoring interpretation, and critical care communication tools.
• Operated and maintained all complex monitoring equipment utilized in the critical care environment.

8. Patient Outcomes

Patient outcomes are the results of a patient's treatment or medical care. Clinical research nurses use patient outcomes to evaluate the effectiveness of their care plans and monitor the success of treatment. They analyze data from various sources to enhance and improve patient outcomes. As Alison Alaimo MSN, RN , Undergraduate Program Director/Clinical Assistant Professor at Missouri State University, states, "Nurses work tirelessly to promote positive patient outcomes."

• Consult and advise physicians and care managers/discharge coordinators on different therapies for optimal patient outcomes.
• Developed evaluation plan that encompassed cost effectiveness, patient outcomes and services.

9. Oncology

Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with cancer. Clinical research nurses use oncology to provide skilled nursing care to patients with cancer. They manage caseloads of patients participating in clinical trials, coordinate patient and physician conferences, and direct clinical research trials focused on various disease sites. In the words of Susan Zori , Clinical Associate Professor at Adelphi University, "Specialty certification recognizes the nurse as an expert with advanced knowledge in a chosen specialty such as Oncology Nursing. This advanced education opens many possibilities for nurses."

• Provide skilled nursing care for patients spanning the pediatric medical spectrum including hematology, immunology, oncology, neurology and endocrinology.
• Managed caseload of ambulatory oncology and HIV patients participating in clinical trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute's Intramural Program.

10. Infection Control

Infection control is the process of preventing and controlling the spread of harmful microorganisms. Clinical research nurses use infection control by developing policies and procedures, administering vaccines while maintaining proper measures, and monitoring facility compliance with reporting and standards. They also participate in quality improvement processes, safety activities, and ensure safe administration of vaccinations.

• Develop policies and procedures according to current evidenced bases practice for department and organization to ensure patient safety and infection control.
• Obtained consents and skillfully administered seasonal Influenza vaccines in a variety of settings of clinics while maintaining proper infection control measures.

11. Compassion

Compassion is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Clinical research nurses use compassion in various ways, such as collecting personal information, providing a therapeutic environment for patients, and demonstrating empathy for patients and families. As Mary Farmer MSN, RN, Associate Professor, Practical Nursing Program Coordinator at University of Hawaii Maui College, puts it, "Soft skills for nursing assistants would include time management skills, empathy and compassion for others, and the ability to foster positive communication skills."

• Collected highly personal information; Demonstrated integrity, respect, compassion and empathy for patients and families.
• Provide compassion and a therapeutic environment for the patients.

12. Patient Education

Patient education is a crucial part of a clinical research nurse's job. It involves helping patients understand their condition, treatment options, and medication regimens. Clinical research nurses use patient education to ensure their patients are well-informed and empowered to manage their own health. They provide individualized education, answer questions, and address specific learning needs. As Jeffery Christian , a Professor at Sac City's Nursing Department, puts it, "Building relationships with patients is vital for patient education and teaching. So much of nursing is teaching. If the nurse does not have the skill of relationship building, many opportunities to truly create change in the patient's life will be lost."

• Provided patient education, monitored physical condition, planned and implemented care based on needs and initiated emergency procedures when indicated.
• Serve as Charge Nurse/Patient Care Coordinator facilitating admissions, discharges, patient education and perform medical rounds with multidisciplinary teams.

13. Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is the process of helping someone recover from a serious injury or illness. Clinical research nurses use rehabilitation in various ways. They help patients recover from surgical conditions, assessing their progress and encouraging early discharge from the hospital. They also guide patients towards rehabilitation exercises, social events, and community services like substance use and sobriety programs. In addition, they promote safe follow-up appointments with rehabilitation services and physician teams, and support patients and their families throughout the recovery process.

• Helped the pt in early recovery and rehabilitation with surgical medical conditions assessing encouraging them for early discharge from hospital.
• Guided patient to anticipate difficulties regarding medication adherence upon release into the community including substance use, sobriety and rehabilitation.

ICU stands for Intensive Care Unit, a specialized department in a hospital that provides close and constant care to critically ill patients. Clinical research nurses use ICU to provide primary nursing care to critically ill patients, manage patient care situations in times of emergent circumstances, and to monitor critically ill cardiac patients. As Kara Sump MSN, CNE , Assistant Professor of Nursing at George Fox University, puts it, "Critiqued research articles and presented to ICU team and other health care providers and participants."

• Demonstrated clinical leadership and problem solving in a variety of patient care situations including in times of emergent circumstances/medical ICU transfers.
• Implemented medical management in combined medical and cardiac ICU.

15. Patient Safety

Patient safety is the practice of minimizing risks and harm to patients. Clinical research nurses use patient safety by designing systems to meet national goals, performing patient assessments, and administering treatments with attention to accuracy and comfort. They also coordinate patient care, monitor responses to ensure protocol compliance, and anticipate changes to maintain safety. Some clinical research nurses even receive awards for their work in patient safety.

• Designed systems to meet national patient safety goals in medication reconciliation, communications between levels of care and mandatory vaccinations.
• Performed patient assessments, medication administration, patient safety, admission/discharges and transfers of patients, educated patient and families.

12 Clinical Research Nurse Resume Examples

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List of clinical research nurse skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a clinical research nurse resume and required skills for a clinical research nurse to have include:

• Quality Care
• Critical Care
• Patient Outcomes
• Infection Control
• Patient Education
• Rehabilitation
• Patient Safety
• Physician Orders
• Direct Patient Care
• Informed Consent
• Data Collection
• Advanced Life Support
• Medical Care
• Clinical Trials
• Family Education
• Chemotherapy
• Research Studies
• Vital Signs
• Medication Administration
• Home Health
• Primary Care
• Resuscitation
• Discharge Planning
• Phone Calls
• Excellent Interpersonal
• Surgical Procedures
• Registered Nursing
• Patient Flow

Updated June 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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