Becoming, Being and Building: A Qualitative Descriptive Study of the Experiences of Clinical Research Nurses

AIM: To explore the experience and practices of clinical research nurses in Victoria, Australia. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive design with reflexive thematic analysis. METHODOLOGY: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten clinical research nurses between October and December 2023 in Victoria, Australia. RESULTS: Three phases (overarching themes) were generated: (1) Becoming a clinical research nurse, occurred by chance with a stressful and unsupportive transition period; (2) Being a clinical research nurse, was described as an ongoing development of confidence, specialised skills and knowledge; and (3) Building a clinical research nurse role, was described as challenging due to limited educational and career opportunities. CONCLUSION: Clinical research nurses experienced a limited number of clear educational and career pathways that they could use to plan and grow in the nursing profession. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Addressing support and career development needs may ease clinical research nurses' transition and improve career planning. IMPACT: This study addresses a gap by highlighting the limited structured career pathways, formal mentorship and ongoing educational planning for clinical research nurses. Findings illustrate that clinical research nurses often begin unprepared, gradually develop confidence and skills, but continue to struggle with unclear career development plans. The findings can inform nursing leadership, educators and policymakers to better support clinical research nurses. REPORTING METHOD: The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Checklist (COREQ). PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.