RCSI
Clinical Research Centre
The interaction between clinical research,
advanced diagnostics and fundamental science continues to grow in the
RCSI clinical research centre. The centre now has 15 dedicated research
nurses with expertise in cardiovascular, respiratory, neurology and
rheumatology research. The centre has had over 12,000 patient visits to
date. New research areas have been developed in HIV, prostate cancer
and in the treatment of venous ulcers. In 2007 the volume of our
investigator and pharmaceutical led studies increased significantly
with enhanced collaboration between scientists and clinicians.
Consistent with our growth in research projects has been an increase in
clinical research nurses and research associates. The centre is now
engaged in a 5-6 year follow up study of patients at risk for lung
cancer. A study initially led by Beaumont Hospital consultants through
the clinical research centre that has led to major publications to
date.
Research from the centre has contributed to
both new and continued funding through the Higher Education Authority
and Science Foundation Ireland. The CRC contributed significantly to
the Forfás report of 2007 on research infrastructure in Ireland -
building for tomorrow.
The Clinical Research Centre will continue
to work on behalf of patients in promoting the value of clinical
research to enhance their care through advances in medical science and
advanced diagnostics.
Dermot Kenny, MD
Director, Clinical Research Centre
The year 2008 has brought several new
Investigators to the Clinical Research Centre. The support and research
nursing expertise offered by the CRC has enabled these investigators to
conduct studies that would not have been possible otherwise. As we
continue to develop and extend our experience in different therapeutic
areas our research nurse profile has also expanded. The project
management skills of the research nurses together with their ability at
identifying and overcoming obstacles typically encountered with
research studies have been recognised both by funding agencies and
industry. Several of the research staff have either completed or are
undertaking higher degrees. The CRC plays an active role in enabling
the development of research nurses. Research nurses in the CRC continue
to be the focal point of advocacy for patients both in their daily
practice and through the forum of advanced education and publications.
Ailbhe Murray, RGN
Director of Nursing, Clinical Research Centre
