Research Licensed Practical Nurse

Job Summary

Under the direction of Principal Investigator, Dr. Patricia Spittal, the Cedar Project is a community-based research initiative that addresses Hepatitis C and HIV vulnerabilities among young Aboriginal people who use illicit drugs in two cities in British Columbia (BC), Canada (Vancouver and Prince George). The Cedar Project research studies include : Cedar Project, and the HCV Blanket Program, and COVID-19 study.

Reporting to the Principal Investigator of the research or designate, the Research Licensed Practical Nurse is responsible for reviewing research protocol and study design with Study Investigator(s), screening, registration, assessment and ongoing follow-up of research subjects in accordance with study protocols. Obtains participant data and completes case report forms, charts and other study documentation. Supports department / program personnel to ensure study requirements are met. May collect biological samples and review test results, as applicable.

Organizational Status

The Cedar Project Research Licensed Practical Nurse reports to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Patricia Spittal and the Cedar Project Coordinator, Vicky Thomas. The incumbent works with research staff and nurses working on the Cedar Project in the Vancouver office. The incumbent also works with other Cedar Project staff, students and postdoctoral fellows, and liaises with SPPH and other UBC staff as necessary. The incumbent is located in Vancouver, BC.

The position is in the School of Population and Public Health (SPPH), which is in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia. SPPH is an innovative unit that encompasses many of the health-related groupings at UBC as a collaborative venture. The School is structured around four divisions : Occupational and Environmental Health; Health Services and Policy; Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Public Health Practice; and Health in Populations. The resulting mix of professions and disciplines is seen as a means of connecting individuals and learners to galvanize the relationship between health research, public health and health services and to enhance learning.

Work Performed

Reviews research protocol and study design with the Study Investigator(s) and Study Coordinator(s).

Develops protocol applications and design patient consent forms for REB (PHSA / UBC Clinical Research Ethics Board).

Assists the Principal / Study Investigator and other study personnel in the identification and recruitment of subjects for the study and to assess participant eligibility for inclusion in study based on established criteria.

Reviews and explains the purpose and conduct of the study, explains consent forms to potential subjects, study obligations, and obtains required consent signatures.

Carries out initial screening / nursing assessment of potential subjects by obtaining medical history and social profile. Educates and supports participants / families regarding the study and the diseases being investigated.

Administers all study questionnaires to subjects while accurately documenting all collected data via forms or computer.

Supports department / program staff regarding current trials and follows up to ensure compliance is maintained while participants are on trial protocols and acts as a resource to clinical staff, patients and colleagues when patients are enrolled in a study.

Ensures that appropriate appointments, diagnostic tests, procedures and follow up visits have been scheduled. Provides pre and post test counselling and support to subjects as applicable, which may include referral to other resources.

Collects blood samples as required by study protocol. Labels packaged items to send out to laboratory in accordance with applicable Transportation of Dangerous Goods regulations, study safety procedures, and protocols.

Maintains required records and other related documentation including updating and completing case report forms. Ensures study documents and procedures are up to regulatory standards.

Monitors, records, and reports adverse events which occur while a subject is in the clinical study and reports to Principal / Study Investigator, or other designated personnel in accordance with regulatory requirements / protocols.

Provides orientation regarding study and protocols to other staff as required. Liaises with other members of the study team regarding clinical issues, records and data management, protocol changes, etc.

Performs direct nursing care including physical assessment, First Aid treatment (if required), monitoring medication adherence and treatments, as applicable.

Provides outreach and transportation to follow up and support study participants in the community.

Prepares for study audits when required.

Adheres to Department / Program Research Standard Operating Procedures.

Attends investigator meetings and education sessions.

Practices research with knowledge of and adherence to GCP, ICH and Tri-council Policy Statement requirements and regulations.

Advocates for the study subjects to protect and promote their rights to dignity, respect, privacy, confidentiality, autonomy and access to information.

Orders study supplies and ensure supplies are in stock.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Consequence of Error / Judgement

The Research Licensed Practical Nurse works independently and is expected to make routine decisions and consult with the Principal Investigator as required. Strong attention to detail and interpersonal skills are required to ensure study protocols are followed, data is documented accurately and patients are treated with consideration and respect. Errors made could result in the study being administered incorrectly, medication errors, etc., which could cause harm to study participants, delays, possible loss of funding, or impact the integrity of the study as well as the Cedar Project and the School.

This position will be responsible for access, collection, use and disclosure of personal information in accordance with the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RSBC 1996) and other UBC privacy and security policies. This position requires employees to work under strict confidentiality requirements; internal procedures and policies to protect personal information must be followed and adherence to these requirements will be regularly reviewed by the employer.

Supervision Received

This position reports to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Patricia Spittal and the Cedar Project Coordinator, Vicky Thomas. Supervision includes : in person, Zoom, email and teleconference calls.

Supervision Given

Not applicable.

Minimum Qualifications

Registered Nurse with BCCNM plus a minimum of one year of nursing experience.

• Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own
• Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

Demonstrated interest in clinical research.

Demonstrated knowledge and ability to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). procedures and First Aid appropriate for the area of service.

Knowledge of clinical area of study.

Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Ability to work as a member in an interdisciplinary team.

Ability to apply decision making and analytical skills.

Ability to deal with others effectively.

Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.

Ability to prioritize and organize work.

Ability to operate related equipment.

Ability to use computers and standard office applications.

Ability to teach.

Ability to provide outreach.