Fox Chase Cancer Center’s clinical research nurse, Colbi Carr, has joined the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group – American College of Radiology Imaging Network (ECOG-ACRIN) Research Group’s Oncology Nursing Committee. Carr expressed that this opportunity will allow her to share her expertise from Fox Chase and learn from other organizations.
ECOG-ACRIN is a national scientific organization focused on cancer research for adults at risk or suffering from cancer. It comprises several subcommittees specializing in various areas such as pharmacy, radiation oncology, surgery, and clinical research.
The Oncology Nursing Committee evaluates medical protocols from a nursing perspective. Its members assess the feasibility and structure of these protocols and ensure they align with standard procedures. The committee also promotes communication among nursing members, supports patient accrual to trials, participates in patient care during trials, and ensures compliance with trial elements.
The committee’s goals include collaborating with clinical research associates, pharmacists, and patient advocates on education and symptom management related to treatment side effects. Carr views her role as an advocate for patients in protocol development and standards review.
Carr stated: “I look at my role in this committee as being sort of a patient advocate. As we develop these protocols and review the standards, it’s important to include the patient perspective.”
ECOG-ACRIN is part of the National Institutes of Health’s National Cancer Institute through its National Clinical Trials Network. By joining ECOG-ACRIN, Carr becomes part of a network of approximately 21,000 oncology professionals.
