RN) Clinical Research Nurse - Medicine

While not required, a cover letter is highly recommended when applying to this position.

UCSD Division of Endocrinology, within the department of Medicine, operates a Diabetes Clinical Research Center at the Altman Clinical & Translational Research Institute. In addition to offering challenging career opportunities in cutting-edge research, resources within the department allow research participants a unique opportunity for state-of-the-art services. The department is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees.

Under the supervision of the Principle Investigator, provide primary nursing to adult volunteers in a clinical research unit, including but not limited to, drug administration, infusions, assisting with biopsies, glucose tolerance testing, performing glycemic clamps, monitoring vital signs, IV insertions and phlebotomy. Assist Principal Investigators in the conduct of research by providing nursing expertise in the treatment and monitoring of patients involved in clinical trials and other research studies, in the collection and analysis of patient data, and in the preparation of research documents for the sponsoring entities and regulatory agencies.

Organize and manage inpatient and outpatient functions as assigned. Review protocols and attend in-service presentations for new protocols. Advise research personnel on proper nursing skills required to perform the research study. Participate in quality assurance. Oversee non-licensed clinical staff. Perform venipuncture, starting and maintaining IV lines, conscious sedation, and processing blood samples as required.

Autonomous nursing care is the ability of a nurse to assess and provide nursing actions as appropriate for patient care populations based on competence, professional expertise, and knowledge. The nurse is expected to practice autonomously consistent with ANA Standards of Practice and Professional Performance. Independent judgment is expected to be exercised within the context of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches to patient care.

All performance expectations associated with this position are performed at the PRACTITIONER Level.

• Registered Nurse (RN) license issued by the state of California and six (6) months or more of active nursing experience. Experience in research in a related field preferred.
• BLS/CPR certification at time of hire with commitment to get BART within 6 months of hire date.
• Ability to draw blood, start IV lines, collect specimens and administer medications via all routes.
• Ability to understand clinical research protocols and carry out specialized clinical research procedures such as glycemic clamps, pharmacokinetic sampling and glucose tolerance tests.
• Knowledge of standard patient care equipment such as EKG, oximeter, blood pressure monitor, IV pumps, pipettes, centrifuge and ability to operate properly.
• Current knowledge utilizing basic nursing assessment. Comfortable with adopting new therapies in a research setting.
• Knowledge of medications, indications, dosage ranges, side effects, and potential toxicity.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language and utilize medical terminology appropriately.
• Ability to make independent clinical decisions in patient care matters.
• Willing to perform all tasks necessary to unit functioning and patient care.
• Ability to work accurately and quickly under pressure.
• Ability to set priorities and organize work.

• Certification in ACLS and Chemotherapy certification.
• Knowledge of performance improvement and research process.
• Knowledge of UCSD nursing policies, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements, Institutional Review Board (IRB) compliance, Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) regulations and federal guidelines for human research and procedures and ability to communicate, teach and train others.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
• Knowledge of legal implications for clinical research and regulations regarding human subjects, informed consent, and knowledge of principles of Good Clinical Practice.

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs. Days, evenings and infrequently nights as needed.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment physical for those who work in clinical settings and/or with…