Over 2,300 patients have signed up to take part in clinical research at University Hospital of North Staffordshire. The Trust, together with Keele University, is involved in some of the most important medical research in the country. But without the help of patients, much of this research wouldn't be possible.

 

Beryl Alcock, lead nurse for clinical trials at University Hospital, said: "Clinical research is incredibly important. It advances patient care and helps to ensure that we are always striving for the best as a Trust. University Hospital is an excellent centre for research and development. From April 2010 to present day, 2,309 new patients have signed up to take part in clinical trials at the Trust. This is a phenomenal figure and one the hospital should be proud of."

 

Research nurses at University Hospital have also been given a new uniform. University Hospital has 42 research nurses working across a variety of specialties, including oncology, neurology and diabetes. Every research nurse will sport the grey-blue tunic. The tunics are the same colour as those worn by clinical nurse specialists and will help to raise the profile of research nurses on the wards.

 

Beryl Alcock said: "The new uniforms are not only smart and good for infection control, but will help us to be identified more easily on the wards and around the hospital. This is good for both staff and patients. We hope to raise the profile of research through creating a clearer 'role' for ourselves, identifying research nurses and midwives as specialists in their field. The uniforms will help us to do this."

 

Loretta Barnett, A&E research nurse, said: "As a research nurse my role is to offer support, information and advice to patients with regards to research. I also provide care and continuing support to patients participating in research trials. On a personal level, this is a really fulfilling role as it gives me the opportunity to help improve the quality of care provided to our patients. It’s great to be a part of the research team."