By Josh Borunda, PBT
Let’s say you volunteered for a clinical study, have signed the Informed Consent and are scheduled to come in for the first study visit. Basic procedures to assess your health will be done at this visit.
Key instructions patients will hear for this and later visits throughout the study include:
- Arrive fasting, if asked to do so
- Hydrate by drinking plenty of water
- Bring back study supplies, such as medication, diaries, and glucometers
- Wear appropriate attire
Fasting is defined as no food or drink 8-12 hours before the visit. Patients sometimes think they cannot have water during this time frame. However, water is encouraged prior to study visits because blood samples are much easier to obtain when patients are well hydrated. Suggested appropriate attire includes wearing a button-down shirt so that a 12-lead ECG (electrocardiogram) can be obtained, so you won’t have to change into a clinic gown.
To illustrate the importance of the visit reminders, let’s meet “Dan.” Dan has diabetes and has recently enrolled in a clinical study for a new diabetes medication. At Dan’s first visit he was given a glucometer and a paper diary to document his blood glucose levels during the week. Prior to Dan’s next visit, the research staff will call to remind Dan that he should arrive fasting. He is also reminded to bring all study materials (glucometer, completed diary and study medications) and to dress in a button-down shirt.
Dan has been empowered with the responsibility of being prepared for the study visit. The doctor/coordinator can more effectively assess Dan’s health in relation to the study medication because Dan was ready for the visit.
These suggestions are not inclusive for all clinical studies, but it does shed light on the expectations for patients. Patients who follow directions can be assured of getting the most out of their research experience.
The Clinical Research Center is currently seeking volunteer patients in studies for Alzheimer’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, and those with very high triglyceride levels.
If you are interested in learning more about clinical trials, contact the Clinical Research Center at 541-766-2163, or send an email to research@corvallisclinic.com or fill out our Research Study Information Request form. And, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/corvallisclinicresearch.
Josh Borunda is a Certified Phlebotomy Technician in The Corvallis Clinic Clinical Research Department.
