Developing good practice for clinical research nurses

Abstract

This article outlines the role of clinical research in the UK government's strategy for economic growth and the role of clinical research nurses in that research. The diverse skills and knowledge required by clinical research nurses to support a range of research studies in a number of research environments are described. The development and aim of the UK Clinical Research Facility Network is discussed, with particular focus on the role of the UK Clinical Research Facility Network Education Group in supporting clinical research nurses and research teams to acquire and maintain relevant research skills. The outcomes delivered by the UK Clinical Research Facility Network Education Group are outlined along with ongoing and future work. Recommendations to ensure that the workforce will be skilled appropriately to support future clinical research are provided.