Lindsay Welch and colleagues describe how a system that involves rotating nurses between a respiratory centre and a research unit has delivered research data while improving the care of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Southampton Research and Development Department has managed several chronic obstructive pulmonary disease research studies, leading to the development of a unique nurse management model. This model has ensured that research recruitment targets are met, skilled respiratory nursing care is delivered, and evidence-based practice is translated into the clinical environment.