Research nurse

Job overview

The Gastroenterology research team runs clinical trials for patients primarily with Inflammatory Bowel Disease or Celiac Disease, together with Gastroenterologists, Industry and the Regional Research Delivery Network. We are looking for a Band 6 research nurse who can work within an established, experienced and supportive research team to recruit patients to our large portfolio of industry trials, monitoring and evaluating care and liaising with senior doctors and the wider IBD specialist team.

We exclusively manage a significant number of trials both commercial and academic. Our department comprises a large team of research nurses, practitioners and administrators who have an extensive portfolio of studies across both Hepatology and Gastroenterology research teams and share the facilities to deliver on these. We collaborate closely with the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) who monitors recruitment, provides nursing resources and organises meetings for healthcare professionals in the South-Central region, which provides a fantastic networking opportunity.

We are currently located on levels 5 and 6 of the John Radcliffe Hospital. Our clinical space is co-located alongside the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Day Case Unit on 6B, with our offices and lab space on Level 5.

Main duties of the job

We are seeking someone who is motivated, dynamic, looking for a new challenge, takes pride in delivering high standards of care, puts patient experience at the heart of what they do and ideally, has experience in research settings. Holding a UK recognised first level degree (HEI Level 6) in Nursing, being registered with the NMC and proficiency with Microsoft Office packages are essential requirements for the role. The post holder will be part of exciting projects helping to facilitate new pathways of care and will be able to communicate with senior doctors and be the first port of call for patients receiving new and innovative treatments.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Clinical Practice and Research

The post holder will practice with knowledge, skills and behaviours which

Manage workload and co-ordinate allocated clinical trials and research studies together with clinicians and research nurses

Recruit patients from Gastroenterology clinics and other care settings to the appropriate clinical trials and conduct their follow up when required

Manage patients care throughout their time in their study whilst evaluating and reporting accurately to senior clinicians and trial sponsors.

Respond to trial queries that are raised in the electronic data capture software by the sponsor within a timely and professional mannerPractice in compliance with their code of professional conduct, being responsible and accountable for their decisions, actions, or omissions

Utilise effective communication skills through a variety of methods, supporting participants in decision making in relation to clinical trial and study entry and participation

Utilise effective communication skills with colleagues both internally and/or externally, in verbal, non-verbal and written communication methods, adapting to changing parameters as required, which includes thorough accurate documentation in patient records as required

Provide and receive highly sensitive, complex or contentious information relating to participant involvement and care, and communicates information to participants, families or carers with respect, compassion and empathy

Able to competently perform a range of clinical procedures as required as part of the research protocol, ensuring accurate data capture. These include but are not limited to taking blood and carrying out minor laboratory procedures as required by relevant study protocol (eg: sample preparation and centrifugation) following appropriate training, and administration of intravenous therapies to trial patients within the unit, in accordance with OUH and clinical trial protocols

Adhere to the NMC Codes of Conduct, Scope of Professional Practice and Good Clinical Practice at all times

Participate in and ensure compliance with Informed Consent Procedures, acting within boundaries of own competency, research regulation and Trust policies/SOPs

• Use own professional judgment identifying when to escalate and seek senior support/guidance
• Support the research team with all administrative tasks, including study set up and completion of feasibility requests, as required
• Ensure all necessary regulatory approvals are in place prior to approaching potential study participants
• Work within the limits of the approved protocol and any approved amendments

Leadership and Management

The research nurse post holder will practice with knowledge, skills and behaviours which…

Initiates and develops effective relationships, fostering clarity of the research nurse role within teams, to encourage productive and efficient working practices

Act as a role model for excellence in clinical research delivery & demonstrate the values of the OUHFT, including a person-centred approach to care

Provide line management and mentorship where appropriate to junior colleagues

Support learners/students on placement within the team

Contribute to the research team and service development as required

Promote research to potential participants and colleagues within the Trust and other partners

Support the development and implementation of local standard operating policies and procedures

Remain adaptable to change, continually developing own practice

Participate in clinical & research governance reporting and participate, as required, in the investigation of clinical & research incidents

Recognise the critical importance of wellbeing in self and others, seeking to identify and manage stressors or pressures to promote health and wellbeing

Education

The research nurse post holder will practice with knowledge, skills and behaviours which…

Address own CPD learning needs as research delivery nurse, working to a personal development plan that reflects the needs of the individual and clinical research delivery service

• Critically reflects to maximise clinical & research delivery skills and knowledge development
• Engage with performance reviews and appraisal processes, as required Engage with training and education opportunities across both research delivery, leadership and clinical speciality. This may include conferences, study days, and investigators meetings

Improving Quality and Developing Practice

The research nurse post holder will practice with knowledge, skills and behaviours which…

• Report all Adverse Events and Serious Adverse Events in line with ICH-GCP, ISO 14155 and OUH NHS Trust Adverse Events Reporting policy
• Promote the value of clinical research to potential participants, the public and NHS colleagues
• Participate in dissemination of research results locally and nationally as appropriate
• Represent participants and clinical research delivery staff in the development and review of research protocols, ensuring the protocols are deliverable, as appropriate
• Promote and take part in PPI engagement in research design and dissemination
• Seek to publish new findings and best practice in Trust communications, meetings, conferences and journal articles where appropriate
• Understand the professional and current issues related to clinical research and area of practice
• Participate in audits and inspections to inform own and other’s practice, helping to formulate and implement strategies to act on key learnings and making improvements

Actively seeks feedback from individuals, families, carers and colleagues to inform own development and/or service developments in practice