The clinical research unit: a nurse-led unit for patients undergoing early anti-cancer drug trials

Patients participating in phase I and II trials are often treated in busy oncology wards and clinics where it is difficult to monitor them closely and to give them the amount and quality of care that they need. This paper describes the Clinical Research Unit (CRU) which was established to improve patient care and to achieve optimal data collection for such trials. Areas discussed include the structure and layout of the CRU, the staff involved, general functioning of the unit and future development plans. The benefits and potential problems of a nurse-led designated area for phase I and II trial patients are also discussed and it is suggested that the benefits far outweigh the potential problems, most of which can be overcome. It is concluded that the CRU is an optimal environment to treat patients participating in phase I and II trials.