The Clinical and Translational Research Institute (CTRI) was established to provide education, training and infrastructure for clinical research in the San Diego area that encompasses four hospital systems, two universities and four biomedical research organizations. It is under the direction of Gary S. Firestein, MD, Dean for Translational Research at UC San Diego.

Under the direction of the Nursing Supervisor, serve as a Clinical Research Nurse and provides primary nursing to pediatric and adult volunteers in a clinical research unit, including but not limited to, drug administration, infusions, assisting with biopsies, glucose tolerance testing, monitoring vital signs, IV insertions and phlebotomy. Assist Principal Investigators in the conduct of research by providing nursing expertise in the recruitment, 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 submission to Institutional Review Boards, research 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. Perform venipuncture, start and maintain IV lines, monitor conscious sedation, and process blood samples as required. Work on special projects as assigned by Medical Director and Nursing Supervisor.

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.

• Current valid California Registered Nurse license

• Current BLS/CPR certification at time of hire with commitment to get BART within 6 months of hire date.

• Six (6) months or more of active nursing experience.

• Knowledge of standard patient care equipment such as EKG, oximeter, blood pressure monitor, IV pumps, pipettes, centrifuge.

• Proven ability to understand complex research protocols, including rationales for clinical/laboratory measurements and results; experience educating staff in the research process.

• Knowledge of medications, indications, dosage ranges, side effects, and potential toxicity.

• Ability to draw blood, start IV lines, collect specimens and administer medications via all routes.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in addition to excellent interpersonal skills to deal with a diverse group of people.

• Ability to understand clinical research protocols and carry out specialized clinical research procedures such as pharmacokinetic sampling, gene therapy, chemotherapy.

• Ability to make clinical decisions in patient care matters.

• Ability to work accurately and quickly under pressure.

• Ability to teach clinical skills.

• Ability to apply urine bags to pediatric and adult patients.

• Ability to set priorities and organize work.

• Experience in recognizing adverse events and reporting.

• Experience in collaboration with medical and scientific investigators.

• Computer literacy including knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet software, email, Internet browsers.

• Knowledge of UCSD nursing policies, HIPAA requirements, IRB compliance, JCAHO regulations and federal guidelines for human research procedures and ability to communicate, teach and train others.

• Certification as a clinical research coordinator.

• ACLS and/or ART.

• Knowledge of legal implications for clinical research.

• One (1) year ER or ICU background.

• Epic experience.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.

• Must be willing to commute between Hillcrest Medical Center, La Jolla CTRI facilities and possibly Rady Children's Hospital.

• Must be willing to work a flexible schedule - days, some evenings and very infrequent nights if needed.

• Annual TB /Immunization Clearance required.