Research Infusion Nurse, Coordinator

Description

At the heart of innovative cancer research is compassionate, expert patient care. We are seeking a Research Infusion Nurse / Coordinator who is passionate about oncology, clinical trials, and delivering exceptional infusion care while helping bring tomorrow's cancer therapies to patients today.

Highlands Oncology began in 1996 with three physicians and a desire to change the face of oncology care in our community. Dr. Malcolm Hayward, Dr. Dan Bradford, and Dr. Thad Beck knew that patients do better at home, in the community where they live and work, and where their support system is already in place. In furthering that goal, Highlands has grown with the region from a single location 26 years ago, to 6 locations in Northwest and Northcentral Arkansas today employing more than 850 diverse team members.

As Northwest Arkansas continues to grow, so must the services and providers available in the region. Highlands Oncology is committed to remaining on the cutting edge to ensure our community has access to the very best cancer care. What we have is something quite unique right here in our own backyard with a caring multidisciplinary team focused on treating patients like family.

Job Summary: The Research Infusion Nurse plays a critical role in the delivery of investigational therapies within clinical research trials. This position combines expert infusion skills with clinical research knowledge to ensure safe, accurate, and protocol-compliant administration of study medications. The infusion nurse collaborates with the principal investigators, clinical research coordinators, and other healthcare professionals to monitor patient responses, collect data, and provide education and support to participants throughout the research process. This role requires strong clinical judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to advancing medical science through ethical and compassionate care.

Job Duties / Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of patients' medical records, infusion therapy administration, medication dosages and any adverse events or reactions.
• Monitor patients during and after infusions for adverse reactions or changes in condition.
• Adhere to research protocols and collect relevant data for research, ensuring compliance with Good Clinical
• Practice guidelines and sponsor requirements within the assigned setting.
• Collaboration with Investigators, mid-level providers, nurses, and other Clinical Research Coordinators to identify/document toxicity, adverse events, etc.
• Provide comprehensive education to clinical trial patients and their families regarding infusion therapy, potential side effects and self-care techniques.
• Acts as a resource to clinic personnel/physicians regarding research activities.
• Will have detailed knowledge of chemotherapy, biotherapy, and immunotherapy, which includes administration details, side effects, and able to instruct/educate patients and families in these areas.
• Will provide drug administration services to research patients.
• Performs an assessment of all assigned patients prior to therapy, as well as an ongoing assessment during/after treatment.
• Ability to make independent nursing judgments, which includes triaging patient issues, symptom management, and emergency management. Will take appropriate action while collaborating with the physician or APP as needed.
• Contribute to quality improvement initiatives, data collection, analysis, audits, and implementation of evidence-based practices to enhance patient outcomes.
• Knowledgeable about venous access devices.
• Knowledgeable about lab results and diagnostic findings and can educate patients when needed.
• Acts with skill during stressful or in emergency situations.
• Maintains patient/sponsor confidentiality.
• Maintains high standard of professional performance, behavior, and appearance. As well as functions as a role model to co-workers and students.
• Attends research department meetings when held or reviews the meeting minutes when unable to attend.
• Maintains responsibility for own professional development through active participation in in-services and/or continuing education programs.
• Will keep licenses, certifications, and required qualifications current.
• Demonstrate ongoing professional growth through participation in relevant education endeavors and appropriate associations such as the Oncology Nursing Society.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities:

• In-depth oncology and/or clinical research knowledge preferred.
• Phlebotomy and ECG experience preferred.
• Proficient in computer skills.
• Competent in the use of EMR and patient documentation.
• Effectively communicates with the interdisciplinary healthcare professionals involved in patient care and research study.
• Communicates and delegate tasks to other members of the healthcare team in an appropriate and professional manner.

Certifications/Licenses/Education/or Experience in a related field:

• Graduate from an accredited school of nursing.
• Possess a current and valid nursing license in the state of Arkansas or compact state.
  BLS completion.
• ACLS completion.
• ONS Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy certification required within 4 months of employment, then every two-year renewal.
• After two years of research experience, encouraged to obtain Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) certificate.
• Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) encouraged.
• Required to register with NCI ID.me.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing and Walking: Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Lifting and moving patients: Ability to lift, move, and assist patients, often requiring more than 50 pounds.
• Pushing and Pulling: Must be able to push and maneuver equipment and patient transport devices.
• Fine Motor Skills: Requires good hand-eye coordination to operate controls and handle small objects.
• Repetitive Motions: Frequent use of hand and fingers for operating machinery and adjusting settings.
• Bending and Reaching: Must bend, stoop, twist, and reach to position patients and operate equipment.

Work Environment:

• The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
• Due to the nature of our business and the use of radiation and hazardous chemicals, it is imperative that all employees foster a culture and environment of safety.
• Safety Sensitive: In accordance with the Arkansas code this position is designated as a safety sensitive position wherein the employee performing the job duties under the influence may constitute a threat to health or safety.