Educating patients and their carers about the potential benefits and drawbacks of taking part in research is vital, says John McPhelim

Facilitating access to anti-cancer treatment is an important factor in improving prognosis for many patients with lung cancer. Lung cancer nurse specialists (LCNSs) play an important role in ensuring that patients are managed optimally, including taking part in clinical trials when appropriate. The aims of the survey reported in this article were to examine the views and activities of LCNSs in the UK in relation to recruitment of patients to clinical trials. In addition, the intention was to identify how many LCNSs were involved in patient recruitment to clinical trials and in what way; the views of LCNSs in relation to lung cancer clinical trials; and whether or not they have a role in facilitating recruitment to clinical trials.

LCNSs surveyed agreed that clinical trials were valuable in developing novel treatment strategies. The results showed that LCNSs play an important part in explaining the risks and benefits of participating in clinical trials to patients, although detailed discussions are generally the remit of specialist research nurses.