Job Description
Job Description
Job Overview
The Clinical Research Nurse will deliver direct care to patients who are either participating in or contemplating involvement in clinical trials. Working alongside satellite physicians, this role is crucial for the execution and assessment of clinical research within their designated program or area. The Research Nurse possesses in-depth knowledge of cancer as a disease, various treatment options, and the intricacies of conducting medical research. Furthermore, they apply evidence-based nursing practices and excel in creating and managing care plans that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of cancer patients and their families engaged in clinical trials. Responsibilities may differ across various satellite locations, and the organization’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values are integrated into all aspects of practice.
Detailed Job Description
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Administrative Duties:
1. Assists the principal investigator in developing research protocols.
2. Supports the principal investigator with the protocol review process as needed.
3. Aids in the creation of the protocol budget alongside the principal investigator.
4. Works with the quality assurance office at the cancer center to develop materials specific to protocols.
5. Acts as the research coordinator for protocols sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, pharmaceutical companies, and National Cooperative Groups.
B. Research Responsibilities:
1. Aids in the recruitment and registration of patients for clinical trials.
2. Organizes the scheduling of laboratory tests, imaging assessments, admissions, and clinic visits for patients.
3. Monitors test results as necessary.
4. Manages protocol data as required.
5. Collaborates with internal staff and external organizations to complete clinical research trials.
6. Works with physicians, staff, and nurses to coordinate care and adhere to protocols.
C. Clinical Responsibilities:
1. Manages patient enrollment, treatment protocols, and completion of study requirements for clinical trial participants.
2. Functions effectively as a collaborative member of the healthcare team.
3. Works with Care Coordination to ensure all patient care referrals are addressed.
4. Partners with the primary nurse and Oncology Nurse Navigator to meet patient care needs.
5. Provides education about protocols to patients and families, tailoring interactions to the specific age-related needs of patients.
6. Collects and prepares necessary specimens for analysis and monitors test results as appropriate.
7. Documents relevant information in patient charts and communicates findings to the protocol investigator and attending physicians.
8. Conducts in-service training on protocols and serves as a resource for the healthcare team.
9. Ensures a safe care environment and compliance with regulatory standards.
10. Maintains clinical practices that are evidence-based and align with nursing policies, procedures, and professional standards.
11. Participates in quality assurance and improvement projects within the clinical program and nursing division.
12. Upholds the Code of Ethics for Nurses in all professional activities.
13. Creates an environment that respects the diverse needs of various populations, including cultural, ethnic, gender, and age considerations.
14. Administers medications as required.
15. Keeps current with BLS certification.
16. Adapts to site-specific policies and procedures, communicating any variations to the Director of Research.
17. Builds rapport with patients across different settings, supporting the primary nurse and Oncology Nurse Navigator.
18. Demonstrates an understanding of the unique needs and behaviors of different age groups served.
D. Professional Development:
1. Orientation and training will occur at the main campus and/or satellite locations.
2. Identifies opportunities for professional growth.
3. Sets professional goals and outlines methods to achieve them.
4. Engages in local and national professional organizations.
5. Supports research initiatives within the nursing division.
6. Participates in nursing and institute committees at the main campus, including the monthly Research Nurse Practice Committee meeting.
7. Completes all annual evaluations and competencies within the designated timeframe.
8. Collaborates on professional reports, articles, and presentations for colleagues and the public.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Education:
Graduation from an accredited School of Nursing, as verified by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
A baccalaureate degree in nursing is highly preferred. If holding an associate degree, completion of a BSN within four years is required.
Minimum Work Experience:
At least one year of recent experience as a Registered Nurse (RN).
Experience in ambulatory care and/or oncology is preferred.
Required Licenses/Registrations:
Registered Nurse (RN) license in Massachusetts.
Required Skills:
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification is accepted as a minimum requirement.
Professional nursing certification is preferred (e.g., OCN, BMTCN, CPHON, AOCNP, CRNI, RN-BC).
Additional Knowledge and Abilities:
Ability to work flexibly and effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team.
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to make independent decisions.
Proficiency in computer skills is preferred.
Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills are essential.
Commitment to staying informed about current literature and ongoing learning is required.
This position involves travel to all satellite locations and necessitates the ability to quickly adapt to new environments and build team relationships at each site.