The Clinical Research Nurse and Study Coordinator Experience: An Integrative Review of Factors Shaping a Multifaceted Role

Abstract

Background

Clinical research nurses and clinical study coordinators serve a critical role in the management of clinical studies. However, their efforts are underrecognized. Exploring the factors that shape the study coordinator's experience can provide deeper insights necessary for affirming and advancing this role.

Purpose

This review explored the factors that shape the study coordinator's experience.

Methods

This integrative review identified key factors that shape the study coordinator's experience. Relevant articles were retrieved from PubMed, CINAHL, and manual searches. Only articles that focused on the experience of study coordinators were included.

Results

Findings were organized under individual, relational, and structural dimensions. Factors from the individual dimension represent the core of the experience and include fulfillment and distress. Factors from the relational dimension include advocacy identity and team cohesion, which can moderate experience by contributing to fulfillment or intensifying distress. The structural dimension, which includes organizational structure and organizational support, exerts the most influential effect by shaping factors from the other dimensions.

Conclusion

Organizational engagement is necessary to provide support for the study coordinator's role. Role clarity, increased leadership support, mentorship, and training can mitigate burnout and improve psychological well-being.