Engaging staff in clinical research to tackle the coronavirus pandemic

In this article…

• Effect of the pandemic on the delivery of existing and new clinical trials

• How to engage staff in recruiting patients for clinical trials

• Innovative solutions for delivering medicines, assessing patients and ensuring governance

Nursing Times Awards

This initiative won the clinical research nursing category in the 2020 Nursing Times Awards To find out more about the NT Awards go to awards.nursingtimes.net

Key points

With close support and encouragement, pressured clinicians can make a positive impact on recruiting patients to clinical trials

Supporting the wellbeing and mental health of research teams increases motivation and the ability to excel

Regular ‘huddles’ allow staff to discuss their experiences and reflect on their practice

Using WhatsApp improves communication and research delivery

Regular training sessions maintain engagement with the clinical team and increase patient safety

Abstract

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust's clinical research team had to find innovative ways of continuing to deliver high-quality care and research outcomes in extremely challenging circumstances. This included recruiting to the RECOVERY trial, for which the trust received national recognition for its valuable contribution. This article outlines the steps taken and the lessons learned. This initiative won the Nursing Times 2020 Award for the clinical research nursing category.