The Research Nurse and Consent

1
The Research Nurse and Consent

• Alison Richards
• Oncology Research Nurse
• Flinders Medical Centre

2
FMC Oncology Trials Unit

• Established in 2000
• Part-time Research Nurse
• 1 trial and 2 patients
• Now in 2004
• 3 full-time staff
• Past and present involvement in 70 trials
  incorporating over 400 patients

3
Current Trials at FMC

• Predominantly phase II and III trials in the
  areas of
• GI tract
• Breast
• Lung
• Psycho-oncology

4
Consent

• What does the Research Nurse want to achieve with
  consent?
• Patient understanding of
• trial requirements
• trial duration and follow-up
• potential risks and benefits
• all treatment options

5
My role at FMC

• Clinical Nurse
• Clinical Trial Co-ordinator
• Management of the Trials Unit
• Cancer Registry
• Participant in COSA, AHRDMA
• Educator (patients and staff)

6
FMC Consent Process

• Patient is seen by Doctor
• Patient meets with Research Staff
• Phone contact / meet again
• Further discussion with Doctor if required
• Patient is informed and determines if they wish
  to participate

7
Issues

• Patient advocate
• Liaison with other supports
• Consideration of special needs
• Facilitation of process