How To Become a Research Nurse: 5 Tips for Success

Becoming a research nurse could be an ideal career path if you're interested in healthcare and conducting research. But how do you pursue this nursing specialization? What are the steps you need to take?

A research nurse must complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), become a registered nurse, gain experience, get certified, and consider pursuing advanced education.

Keep reading for further information.

What Does a Research Nurse Do?

Before we look at the steps to becoming a research nurse, let's talk about this type of nurse and what they do. Research nurses are also known as clinical research nurses. As the name implies, nurses in this field assist with and conduct original research relating to:

• medical procedures
• treatments
• medications
• other lifesaving health interventions

Research nurses often work with teams of researchers and other healthcare professionals, testing new treatments or interventions and recording results. Duties can vary from study to study, but research nurses commonly perform some or all of the following:

• overseeing clinical trials and research studies
• closely monitoring participants to ensure they follow trial rules
• writing records, reports of research findings, and grant applications
• assisting with data collection and interpretation
• ensuring all necessary supplies are in stock
• educating study participants
• adhering to all regulatory and ethical standards

Research nurses typically aren't tasked with as much patient care as those in other nursing roles, but this can depend on the needs of the study and its participants.

Steps To Becoming a Research Nurse

To become a research nurse, follow the steps below.

Get an Undergraduate Degree in Nursing

All nursing jobs require at least an associate or bachelor's degree. If you want to be a research nurse, completing a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) program is your most direct route. This four-year degree consists of at least 120 credits and involves completing online or classroom-based coursework and in-person clinical rotations.

Pass the NCLEX and Acquire Nursing Licensure

Once you have graduated from your nursing program, You must complete the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX-RN exam tests your understanding of patient care techniques, medications, and other essential skills. After you pass the exam, you will receive your RN license and may begin to work as a nurse.

Gain Clinical Experience

Those hoping to pursue a research nurse position typically start in a more entry-level role such as:

• clinical research monitor
• research assistant
• clinical data collector

Gaining work experience as part of a research team is essential, as it helps you learn to apply your classroom knowledge and develop skills necessary in any research nurse job.

Consider an Advanced Degree

Most research nurses hold an advanced degree such as:

• Master of Science in nursing (MSN)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing

Once you have gained a few years of experience in a clinical position, consider returning to nursing school to pursue at least an MSN degree.

Get a Research Certification

After at least two years of work experience, you can pursue research certifications to become a research nurse. Various certifications are available through the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SCRA) and the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP), as follows:

• Certified Clinical Research Certification (CCRP)
• Clinical Research Coordinator Certification (CCRC)
• Clinical Research Associate Certification (CCRA)

Tips for Becoming a Research Nurse

Now that we've discussed what a research nurse does and the steps you can take to become one, let's look at some additional tips to help you as you work toward your nursing career:

1. Enroll in an Accredited Nursing Degree Program

When choosing where to obtain your nursing education, ensure your program is accredited. Your college or university should hold both institutional accreditation and specialized accreditation. The CCNE is among the most common nursing organizations to offer specialized accreditation for nursing degree programs.

2. Speak to an Academic Advisor

Working closely with an academic advisor at your school can help you stay on track academically and ensure you're taking all the correct courses. Talk to your advisor about your plans to become a research nurse so they can provide specific guidance on classes to enroll in and steps to take.

3. Create a Study Routine

Nursing programs contain a lot of challenging prerequisites and core courses, and you'll have to memorize and retain a lot of information: everything from names of body parts and diseases to how different types of bacteria affect the human body. Learning all of this information will require a dedicated study routine. Set aside time each day to focus on your studies. Not only will this help you develop strong learning habits, but it will also help you stay on track throughout your nursing education and better prepare you for a research career.

4. Explore Your Financial Aid Options

Going to college can be expensive. Even if you work while attending school, you may need extra financial support to help you afford your degree. Fortunately, a variety of financial aid options are available. You can apply for federal aid through the FAFSA online application form, fill out scholarship applications, participate in a work-study program, or check with your boss to see if your company offers tuition assistance. With a military background, you may also be eligible for tuition discounts and waivers.

5. Speak to a Research Nurse

Finally, speaking to a research nurse can help you learn more about the day-to-day activities of the job. Ask about essential duties, a day in the life of a research nurse, what they like and dislike about the job, and any other questions you may be wondering about. The information you gain from this conversation can prove invaluable in helping you decide if becoming a research nurse is right for you.