In the last decade, there has been an increase in the number of clinical trials being performed in many specialties, notably in the field of cancer. Nurses are bound to encounter a patient either enquiring about clinical trials, who is currently enrolled in a clinical trial or who has had some experience of clinical trials. It is therefore useful for nurses to have a broad knowledge of what clinical trials are, the different types of trial available in the UK, and the benefits and risks associated with these trials. As many patients might be concerned about safety issues, nurses may benefit from some knowledge of the processes in place to maintain patient safety. It is therefore helpful to have an awareness and insight into the role of the clinical trial nurse.