Major changes are occurring in the way in which the federal government conceptualizes and funds clinical research. These changes will alter the landscape of the clinical research enterprise, bringing new challenges and opportunities for professional nurses.

摘要

Improving the health of Americans by bringing new medicines, treatments, and cures to people quickly, equitably, and in a cost-effective way is a major priority of the U.S. healthcare system. Meeting this goal requires collaboration among the many disciplines involved in the direct provision of care, the broader healthcare industry, private and not-for-profit organizations, academia, and agencies within the Federal government. Clinical research is essential to achieving this goal of meaningful and significant long-term improvements in the health of Americans. Clinical research, which involves the participation of human subjects, or research "volunteers," has as its aim the "development of generalizable knowledge useful for understanding and improving human health and well-being."Findings from clinical research provide the foundation for evidence-based healthcare practice.Major changes are occurring in the way in which the Federal government conceptualizes and funds clinical research. Nurse leaders must understand the practical and logistical implications of these changes in the funding and conduct of clinical research in the various healthcare settings in which they work, and be prepared to address the regulatory, educational, ethical, staffing, and quality assurance issues that accompany them