Clare Fletcher, RN

Can you give a short description of your nursing career?

I began my nursing career in neurology critical care and used this as a springboard to further opportunities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Channel Islands and different Roles in the NHS in the UK

How did you get involved in nursing research?

When I returned to the UK after almost 10 years overseas, I found a job working as a Research Nurse for the NIHR Clinical Research Network (CRN) which supports patients, the public and health and care organisations across England to participate in high-quality research. My role is based in Primary Care, and it gives me the opportunity to deliver a variety of studies drawing on my varied nursing background.

What makes you passionate about research?

I have always been keen to support innovation and technology in healthcare. I think this comes from my critical care background and love of new ‘gadgets’! I certainly don’t shy away from change and new ways of doing things if it brings about improvements in patient care or greater efficiency.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining clinical trials or research work?

At first research is like learning a new language, but once you get to grips with this you’ll be hooked. It’s particularly appealing to those with a competitive nature: can you recruit the first patient to a trial; can you recruit the highest number of participants?

Are there any resources about research you want to share?

For research nurses in the UK I would recommend the wealth of NIHR resources. There is also the UK Clinical Research Facility Network (UKCRF Network), FutureLearn which has modules on research and the RCN.