In my years of conducting clinical trials, many things have changed. For example, back in the day we used a pen to fill out data collection forms, which were then sent to study sponsors by overnight delivery. Today data are entered directly into web-based clinical trial databases. One thing about clinical research that has not changed, though, is that our workflow can quickly change from “busy” to “uber busy.” That’s why it is so nice to have department members like Carlene Chen, RN, BSN, who is available as needed to help the Clinical Research Center through the uber busy times.
Carlene began her nursing career working at Stanford University Hospital, first in neurosurgery and then in the Coronary Care Unit. In what was undoubtedly a fascinating three years, Carlene worked in the ICU and as the Diabetes Nurse coordinator in Arizona for the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility serving the Navajo population.
Since joining the Clinical Research Center in 2007, Carlene has worked on a variety of clinical trials, including research in oncology, gastroenterology, diabetes, sleep, neurology, and vaccines. Although Carlene didn’t know it at the time, the first clinical trial she worked on at the Clinical Research Center, one to evaluate an anti-nausea medication for patients receiving chemotherapy, ended up benefiting one of Carlene’s family members a few years later when the anti-nausea treatment was approved. The Clinical Research Center is gratified to get firsthand feedback about how important the work we do here is for patients and our own families.
Carlene is currently helping out with the Expedition 3 Study, a study evaluating a potential treatment to slow the worsening of Alzheimer’s disease in those who have mild disease.
In her spare time Carlene is busy with her family and home and enjoys being active outdoors. Carlene has two high school-aged children to keep on track, and she is determined to further landscape the property around her home “in spite of the deer”.
If you are interested in learning more about our studies contact the Clinical Research Center at 541-766-2163 or send an email to research@corvallisclinic.com.
– Julie Carrico is Associate Coordinator of The Corvallis Clinic Clinical Research Center
