How Do Nurses Contribute to Medical Research?

Nurses carry out research and assist other professionals with projects that play a key role in developing new and innovative treatments. All nurses can take part in evidence-based research, but if they are prepared to undertake further training, then they can qualify as clinical research nurses. This gives them far more responsibility when it comes to planning and conducting studies. Their work could contribute to the creation of more powerful vaccines, the improvement of medical procedures, or the minimization of the side effects of medication. As part of this work, nurses play a key role in caring for the people enrolled as research participants.

Working on independent projects or as part of a team

Bedside experience gained in a different nursing specialty can be a great advantage for those who move into research. People who are interested in this field of medicine that are ready to commit to an MSN in Leadership can enroll at the University of Indianapolis. This online, part-time course is ideal for working professionals. Students can expect to graduate within 28 months and then move into one of the more senior positions in healthcare.

A science-based education is useful in research

Nurses who are planning to embark on a career in research can start on the ward as research monitors or data collectors. Depending on their level of experience, they could oversee the trial, support new members of staff or conduct questionnaires. Research monitors make use of the science education gained in their nurse training to collect specimens that relate to the project and also update the records of each participant while adhering to the project’s regulatory standards.

Getting started with a research project

Whether a nurse designs and administers their own research project or they join up with a team or colleague, there are many ways to get involved. The majority of hospitals and other medical settings provide a range of research opportunities. Even in private physician’s practices, some projects arise. Nurses can use their professional contacts to enquire about studies that are taking place in their facility and their areas of expertise. Alternatively, they can approach non-profits and medical organizations to find out about and apply to participate in their research programs.

Why should nurses be engaged with research projects?

The first nurse to perform lifesaving research was Florence Nightingale, who carried out her investigations while providing care to soldiers injured during the Crimean War (1853-56). To convince the British government to invest in the army hospital, she recorded the soaring rates of illness and infection her patients suffered. Today in the 21^st century, nurses remain crucial to medical research. They care effectively for people who are taking part in trials of new drug therapies, which otherwise may never become available. Their work improves the outcomes for patients in their local hospitals and eventually around the world. Additionally, they can help to reduce the length of time people spend in hospital, minimize the costs of treatment and even influence the planning of future health policies.