Get to Know Laura, Corporate Research Nurse

Join us in a journey that delves into the world of research nursing, where compassionate care meets groundbreaking clinical advancements. Meet Laura, a passionate and dedicated Corporate Research Nurse at Illingworth Research Group™, a Syneos Health® company.

1)   How did you start your journey with Illingworth Research Group? What made you say yes to the opportunity?  

My choice to join Illingworth Research Group was driven by a blend of professional growth, global exposure, lifestyle enhancements, and a genuine passion for research.

There were many factors that made saying 'yes' to this opportunity an easy decision. The prospect of working in an international environment and continuing to utilize my English skills, and the alignment of my research background with the company's growth prospects were strong motivators. Moving from a hospital-based role to community work in Spain, with its attractive climate, added to the appeal. Additionally, the option of a home-based role for a better work-life balance made it an easy decision.

2)   What is the most fulfilling experience you've had while working as a nurse at Illingworth Research Group? 

Working as a Corporate Research Nurse (CRN) has been incredibly fulfilling. The one-to-one care allows nurses the time and space to be with the patient and their family in the comfort of their own environment, creating a unique and compassionate way to deliver care. Through this approach, I got to know patients on a profound level, becoming a pillar of support on their medical journey.

3)   Why is being a Nurse in a Clinical Research Organization unique? How is it challenging & why would you want to work in our industry?  

The CRN role demands a blend of clinical expertise and research prowess. From vital signs to ECGs, blood draws to medication administration, proficiency is essential as you work independently in the community. Additionally, research experience shines through in data recording, managing source documents, processing and shipping biological samples, and adeptly reporting adverse events and compliance matters.

4)   What experiences are good foundations for success in your role at IRG?  

Being a CRN is a specialized field where you blend clinical expertise with research training. Undoubtedly, the path is challenging, diverging from traditional clinical nursing. However, the support network is vast, both on-site and within organizations like Illingworth.

5)   What non-technical skills are crucial for research nurses to develop? 

A successful CRN is not just about clinical expertise and research proficiency. Research nurses must collaborate with patients, research sites, and Illingworth to ensure seamless project protocol execution. Managing multiple patients across different studies demands precision. From having the right equipment on hand to timely material orders, meticulous organization is key to success.

Thinking outside the box is a must. Unexpected issues can arise during visits. Being able to adapt and find creative solutions is a hallmark of a skilled CRN. Proactive risk assessment of the environment is essential to prevent problems before they occur. This foresight helps maintain a smooth and error-free research process.

6)   What does a typical day look like for you?  

In my home-based work, I am responsible for preparing for upcoming visits. I also coordinate with patients and sites for scheduling these visits and make arrangements for couriers. It's crucial to review the project protocol for visit procedures and gather all the necessary equipment and worksheets.

I attend to administrative tasks such as managing expenses and tracking time. I complete any required training modules and regularly meet with my manager for updates and discussions. I keep equipment and material inventory up-to-date and send source documents to the site. I actively contribute to team projects, including assessments, training, and preparing regional meeting slides.

On visit days in the field, I contact the site and patient a day before the visit to perform handover and COVID-19 screening. I then prepare the equipment and worksheets required for the visit. Afterward, I travel to the patient's location and perform the necessary protocol procedures. Safety is a top priority, so I diligently check all records before starting any procedures.

7)   What is your favorite part about working for a leading provider of clinical research home health services?  

This hybrid role is a unique blend of clinical and administrative responsibilities, allowing me to not only develop my clinical skills but also to hone other valuable leadership abilities. From creating informative PowerPoint presentations to conducting teach-back assessments and improving my language skills, this role offers continuous growth opportunities. The flexibility of the work is another standout feature, allowing me to adapt and thrive in this dynamic environment.

8)   Outside of work, what do you like to do in your free time? 

Outside of work, I value quality time with family and friends, relishing outdoor activities with my son and our dog, and exploring new places during the weekends.

9)   How do you stay motivated in your work?   

I enjoy working as a research nurse. Staying motivated is facilitated by open communication with the team, looking forward to future projects, and being informed about the progress of ongoing initiatives. The excitement of contributing to positive patient outcomes and the potential for career advancement keep motivation levels high.

10)   What would you like to share with aspiring Research Nurses? 

The role of a CRN is immensely fulfilling and offers ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.

If Laura's journey has sparked your interest and you're considering joining the ranks of individuals who are making a real difference in healthcare, we encourage you to explore the latest career opportunities at Illingworth Research Group https://illingworthresearch.com/careers/