New to Research Nursing

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Specializes in NICU.

Greetings everyone!

I'm new to research nursing, and I am so excited! Any advice as to how to approach patients in hopes of enrolling them in clinical trials? I am a nurse, first and foremost, and I know that not every trial is right for every patient. However, I assume that it would be beneficial to enroll as many eligible patients as possible in our studies. How do you reconcile the research nurse with the bedside nurse in you? Any advice?

In addition, I know this sounds like a ridiculous question, but should I purchase a stethoscope? My previous employment did not require one (NICU), and I have absolutely no idea where I could have stashed my nursing school stethoscope. Thank you!

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Specializes in NICU.

I came from an NICU background, as you did. Although a research nurse does not do direct patient care, if you are going to examine possible enrollees in clinical trials, then it makes sense to purchase your own stethoscope. Just remember to disinfect it between patients. And good luck in your new specialty. :up:

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Specializes in NICU.

Thank you! :)

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Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

I work with NICU and obstetrical research study participants, and I have yet to use a stethoscope in my scope of practice as a research nurse. If I did need one, I'm sure there is a nurse on the floor who could lend me one to use. FWIW. I guess it would depend on what is expected of you during your clinical trials. Do you need to take serial vitals during the administration of medications, for example?

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