In July 2024, in collaboration with the International Association of Clinical Research Nurses (IACRN) we invited four international nurses to join us in the UK.

This visit provided an excellent opportunity for our international colleagues to connect with clinical research facilities (CRFs) and Research and Delivery staff across a range of specialties, exchange expertise, and foster collaborative relationships by sharing best practices.

Pictured from left (Christa Varnadoe, Vanessa Young and Stephanie Kowalik) at the International Nursing Showcase

• A two-day visit to a clinical research facility (host locations were NIHR The Royal Marsden CRF, NIHR Manchester – The Christie CRF, Sheffield Children’s CRF and Children’s Health Ireland, across a wide range of specialties).
• Attendance at the 2024 UKCRF Network conference in Leicester, with the opportunity to hear high profile speakers and participate in interactive workshops.
• Participation in the UKCRF Network Conference international nurses showcase session, where they could share their experience and details about their home institution.
• Attendance at a private dinner with senior members of NIHR and the UKCRF Network.
• Attendance at the Gala conference dinner

• To improve understanding of alternate approaches to clinical research delivery
• To identify opportunities to share and network best practice
• To share findings using a range of media

We were also pleased to welcome back IACRN research nurse Elizabeth Johnson, who presented a plenary session on her work with rural, underrepresented communities in Montana, USA.

Her plenery “Ever-widening circles: Establishing meaningful under-represented community partnerships through participatory research and design” is available on our YouTube channel here

“I absolutely loved my time with NIHR Manchester Clinical Research Facility (CRF) and The Christie NHS Foundation Trust.
I was able to see the process of operationalizing clinical trials across the pond and meet some absolutely incredible people involved in the research. I was honoured to be selected by International Association of Clinical Research Nurses (IACRN) to participate in this program and attend the UK Clinical Research Facility (UKCRF) Network conference in Leicester.”

After the study visit, we received exceptionally positive feedback on all aspects of the study visit, as well as it’s contribution to their professional development and knowledge.

“I felt very welcomed and learned a great deal about their clinical research operations”

“Interacting with patients, families, nurses, and researchers at the CRF was a highlight. I learned so much from their dedicated team, who serve their communities with such passion and warmth.”

“The program research educator was a clinical research nurse with excellent leadership and program coordination skills and knowledge.”

 

Our CRF hosts also voiced their praise for the visit, stating that the nurses integrated well, contributed positively and gave unique insights into different ways of working.

“It was very interesting to hear the differences in approach in the US compared to Ireland, as well as the differences in nursing practice and education. Gave food for thought about some of the areas that we could improve on, as well as areas that we should be proud of”

“We thoroughly enjoyed hosting and have developed a lasting relationship with our visiting nurse. We were unsure of what the visit would bring and were really surprised by how enjoyable and interesting it was and the team in Children’s Health Ireland really enjoyed her presence and would welcome her or another delegate in the future!”

A big thank you to our UKCRF colleagues who contributed to the 2024 study visits and Jennifer Allison for leading the project.

Pictured our IACRN nurses
with Jennifer Allison, Professor Ruth Endacott, Gail Mills and Lucy Sanger