Clinical Trial Practitioner/Research Nurse
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Job overview
The Research Nurse/Clinical Trials Practitioner is an autonomous specialist working within the multi-disciplinary team. The post holder will take responsibility for the co-ordination and management of a clinical research portfolio comprising of in-house, national and international phase II and III clinical trials in oncology and haematology malignancies.
Responsibilities will include education of patients and colleagues, coordination of care of patients on trials, collection and preparation of biological samples, collection of trial data and monitoring of the expected and unexpected side effects of drugs and other treatment modalities.The post holder will be expected to develop specialized skills and knowledge relating to the conduct of clinical trials, the therapies and the relevant disease sites. The post holder will be expected to have sufficient skills to enable patients to make informed choices concerning their involvement in clinical trials by providing advice and information and acting as the patient’s advocate.
The post is clinically based to support research in all oncology and haematological malignancies, and post holders will be expected to provide cross cover for members of the team.
If you would like further information, please contact Amy Smith, [email protected] or
Adrienne Abioye, [email protected].
Main duties of the job
Research- Coordinates and conducts in-house, commercial and non-commercial national and international phase I, II and III clinical trials in Lymphoma and Myeloproliferative Neoplasms .
- Involved in submitting new clinical trials for ethics and Research and Development approval.
- Creates and maintains trial site files.
- Creates and maintains files of current protocols and patient information sheets/consent forms in the appropriate clinics and departments.
- Be accountable for the documentation of trial data according to ICH GCP guidelines.
- Applies critical appraisal skills in evaluating research protocols.
- Assists in the development and maintenance of databases as appropriate.
- Functions in a collaborative practice role within the multidisciplinary health care team to provide expertise in the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of clinical research protocols.
- Consults with primary investigators, research organisations and industry in the development and delivery of research protocols.
- Develops knowledge of the preclinical data and the specific rationale for testing an investigational agent/modality in humans.
- Ensures trial case report forms are completed in conformance with ICH GCP guidelines and within appropriate time guidelines.
- Demonstrates autonomy as well as the ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary healthcare team in identifying and meeting the needs of the patient and his/her family during various stages of the healthcare continuum.
- Coordinates and monitors the care of patients on clinical trials as follows:
o Participates in identifying potential patients for trials.
o Evaluates eligibility of potential patients.
o Ensures all pre-study tests are undertaken and results obtained.
o Acts as patient advocate and assists in obtaining informed consent in the first instance and as the trial progresses/unfolds.
o Registers/randomises patients onto study protocols.
o Provides general written and verbal information to patients and families on the concept of clinical trials and detailed education regarding the objectives, scientific rationale, treatment and investigations, side effects, self-care and follow-up for specific clinical trials.
o Participates in decisions concerning the treatment of patients on trials in accordance with the protocol.
o Where appropriate provides direct patient care within the expanded role of clinical trials (e.g. advanced history taking, toxicity and response evaluation skills, administration of experimental agents, etc).
o Systematically documents patient information in the medical notes.
o Schedules follow-up appointments, consistent with protocol guidelines.
o Collects and prepares biological samples as per protocol.- Maintains measurable standards of nursing care for specific care needs for patients on clinical trials.
- Disseminates protocol information and research results to health care professionals by one-to-one teaching, written information and/or in-service education classes. ·
- Educates multidisciplinary team about portfolio of clinical trials.
- To act as a primary point of contact for patients in specific trials
- Educates patient and family about clinical trials, including the objectives, scientific rationale, treatment schedule, side effects and follow up plan.
- Develops programs of care for patients taking part in clinical trials. · Establishes and maintains links with other hospitals and GPs. Management ·
Mentorship to data managers and clinical trial practitioners. · Provides cross cover for other research nurses, trial practitioners, data managers and assistants working in the clinical trials unit as directed by the Clinical Trials Manager.
- If the post holder has concerns regarding standards of consent /research process in general they shall report their concerns to the Clinical Trials Manager. ·
- Adheres to Trust and Directorate policies, procedures, standards and protocols. · Research nurses to practice at all times in accordance with the NMC code of professional conduct.
- Research nurses to remain up to date professionally as outlined by the NMC.
- Research nurses to develop practice as outlined in the Trust’s strategy for nursing and midwifery. Professional Development
- Demonstrate self-direction in facilitating continuing education and acquiring related experience. · Maintains awareness of current advances in cancer treatments, research and nursing practice and use this knowledge to maintain high standards of care for patients with cancer.
- Maintains own professional development in conjunction with the objectives of the Service and those identified at Performance and Development Review. · Assume responsibility for continuing education by attending related workshops, rounds, seminars, conferences and courses as well as keeping up to date on current publications.
- Participate in the induction of new staff. · Contribute to educational initiatives within the Cancer Services Directorate. To be aware of and adhere to all Trust policies and procedures, the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Data Protection Act. General To adhere to the UCLH Service Commitment "Putting Patients First" and adopt a professional approach to customer care at all times. To comply with the Trust’s Equal Opportunities Policy and treat staff, patients, colleagues and potential employees with dignity and respect at all times.
To take personal responsibility for promoting a safe environment and safe patient care by identifying areas of risk and following the Incident, Serious Incidents and Near Misses reporting policy and procedure.
To take personal responsibility for ensuring that UCLH resources are used efficiently and with minimum wastage, and to comply with the Trust's Standing Financial Instructions (SFIs).
To comply with Trust policies for personal and patient safety and for prevention of healthcare-associated infection (HCAI); this includes a requirement for rigorous and consistent compliance with Trust policies for hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment and safe disposal of sharps.In accordance with the Trust's responsibilities under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, undertake work and alternative duties as reasonably directed at variable locations in the event of and for the duration of a significant internal incident, major incident or pandemic.
To be aware of and adhere to all Trust policies and procedures, the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Data Protection Act. To maintain confidentiality at all times.
Other
These guidelines are provided to assist in the performance of the contract but are not a condition of the contract. The job description is not intended to be exhaustive and it is likely that duties may be altered from time to time in the light of changing circumstances and after consultation with the postholder.All staff will be regularly assessed on their knowledge, skills and behaviour, and application of all aspects of the job description, in line with the Trust’s Personal Development Review (PDR) process. Staff will also be expected to abide by the relevant code of professional practice relating to their discipline.
Working for our organisation
University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) is one of the most complex NHS trusts in the UK, serving a large and diverse population. We provide academically led acute and specialist services, to people from the local area, from throughout the United Kingdom and overseas.Our vision is to deliver top-quality patient care, excellent education, and world-class research.
We provide first-class acute and specialist services across eight sites:
- University College Hospital (incorporating the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing)
- National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery
- Royal National ENT and Eastman Dental Hospitals
- University College Hospital Grafton Way Building
- Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine
- University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases
- University College Hospital at Westmoreland Street
We are dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of many complex illnesses. UCLH specialises in women’s health and the treatment of cancer, infection, neurological, gastrointestinal and oral disease. It has world class support services including critical care, imaging, nuclear medicine and pathology.
We are committed to sustainability and have pledged to become a carbon net zero health service, embedding sustainable practice throughout UCLH. We have set an ambitious target of net zero for our direct emissions by 2031 and indirect emissions by 2040.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
For the full Person Specification and more information regarding the main responsibilities of this role, please refer to the attached Job Description.
Come and be a part of the best NHS trust in England to work for, according to our staff*
UCLH top trust to work at in England – for the second year running! : University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust- In the most recent NHS staff survey UCLH had the highest percentage of staff who said they would recommend us as a place to work, out of all general acute or acute/community NHS trusts in England – for the second year in a row.
UCLH top trust to work at in England – for the second year running! University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Once again, UCLH has received the highest score of all general acute and acute/community NHS trusts in England for staff that would recommend us as a place to work.
This vacancy has been advertised in accordance with the new NHS pay rate which will take effect from autumn 2024. Please note if your employment starts before the 24/25 pay scales are implemented you will be paid under the 23/24 pay scales and any backpay will be adjusted accordingly.Further information can be found at https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/pay-scales-202425
Person specification
Knowledge and Qualifications
Essential criteria- Registered Nurse Part 1, 2
- Completed/working towards degree in the speciality or related field
- Completed/working towards post graduate course in oncology on other related speciality
- Professionally recognised teaching course
Experience
Essential criteria- Post registration nursing experience
- Experience of working with oncology/haematology patients and ability to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of speciality
- Experience of formal/ informal teaching of patients and/or staff
- Demonstrates evidence of professional development
- Experience working as a preceptor/facilitator
- Clinical trials experience
Skills and Abilities
Essential criteria- Demonstrates ability to take charge and delegate duties
Communication
Essential criteria- Proven ability to communicate effectively in writing
Personal and People Development
Essential criteria- Proven ability to work effectively under pressure
Responsibilities towards promoting Equality Diversity and Inclusion
Essential criteria- Demonstratable understanding of the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and/or Knowledge of the NHS obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duties
Ensure the risk of infection to self, colleagues, patients, relatives and visitors is minimised by:
Essential criteria- Being familiar with, and adhering to Trust policies and guidance on infection prevention and control.
- Completing all required training and education (both via e-learning and face to face) on infection prevention and control.
- Including infection prevention and control as an integral part of your continuous personal/professional development and included in your annual appraisal
- Taking personal responsibility so far as is reasonably practicable, in helping ensure that effective prevention and control of health care associated infections is embedded into everyday practice and applied consistently.
Specific Requirements
Essential criteria- Computer literacy
- Proven knowledge of ICH GCP guidelines
- Experience of phlebotomy and cannulation
- Experience of administration of chemotherapeutic agents
At UCLH, we have a real ‘One Team’ ethos, and our values – safety, kindness, teamwork and improving, are central to the way we work. This is supported by our staff, who voted us as the #1 NHS Acute Trust to work for in the whole of England.
At UCLH we take equality of opportunity seriously and are committed to being a diverse and inclusive employer, with a culture that creates a real sense of belonging and trust. It is our fundamental aim, to recruit, retain and promote a diverse mix of people who are representative of our local communities.Applications are encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives to support our world class research, innovation and creativity.
UCLH recognises the benefits of flexible working for staff and has a dedicated policy which allows staff to apply for flexible working right from the beginning of employment. For more information please go to: https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/work-with-us/why-choose-uclh/flexible-working.
We offer our permanent staff an interest free season ticket loan for travel, all our staff have access to free independent and confidential support, large retail discounts, a staff discount platform, cycle to work scheme and on-site accommodation to name a few.
Additionally, UCLH Arts and Heritage’s staff wellbeing programme, Creative Comfort, offers a variety of ways to engage with the arts as a member of UCLH staff. You can try out the weekly choir, weekly art club and join the Culture Club for exclusive access to free and discounted tickets for opera, exhibitions, theatre and more.
We recognise, reward and thank colleagues by nominating them for our annual Celebrating Excellence Awards, which are funded by UCLH Charity.
We are also members of www.mytrustbenefits.co.uk/ which offers discounts on high street retail stores, offers on travel deals, and also to take advantage of cash back schemes.
This vacancy may close before the current listed closing date. You are advised not to delay submitting your completed application.
Please note that all correspondence regarding your application will be via email. The emails will be sent to you via TRAC.jobs and not via NHS Jobs, we encourage you to check your inbox regularly.
Please note that if you are at present in a training position on the 2016 new junior doctor’s contract and are applying for a Trust doctor role your salary will not be pay protected.
You will be placed on the appropriate point of the Trust Doctor pay scale based on your previous experience.
Please note that if you have not heard from us within 3 weeks of the closing date of the advert to assume that you have not been shortlisted on this occasion.
The Trust uses electronic new starter forms on Trac to collect personal details. Information collected is securely stored and used to set up the employee record on the ESR HR system.