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What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research studies in which patients may volunteer to take part. UT MD Anderson uses clinical trials to find better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

What can a patient expect when meeting with a research nurse?

Before your first clinical trial appointment, the research nurse will review your medical records to confirm that you meet the clinical trial requirements. To help ensure the best outcomes, clinical trials often have a large number of requirements, such as having a specific cancer type or belonging to a certain demographic.

How often will a patient see a research nurse?

You will continue to see a research nurse for the duration of the clinical trial – which could be months, or even years. The nurse will explain any changes in your care. They'll also continue to meet with you to check your vital signs, take blood samples, or ask you questions about your health and any side effects you may be experiencing as a part of the clinical trial. “It’s a continuing relationship.

Are research nurses able to treat patients?

Becoming a research nurse requires the same education and licensure as clinical nurses, including a bachelor’s degree in nursing and professional nursing license (RN). Research nurses receive specialized training to conduct research, but they’re still able to perform many of the clinical tasks as other nurses, including giving medications and injections, performing patient assessments, and more.

How do research nurses impact cancer research and patients at MD Anderson?

Research nurses are a critical part of the clinical trial process. From administering patient care to serving as patient advocates, they have the opportunity to make an impact on individual patients and the entire field of cancer care. “Research nurses usher patients through treatment experiences they might not have access to otherwise and uphold clinical trial criteria and standards,” Draetta says.