INTERVIEW WITH MARJOLEIN VAN MIL AND COBY GUIJT ABOUT THE SPECIAL ROLE OF THE NURSE SPECIALIST IN THE CENTER FOR EARLY DRUG DEVELOPMENT

Marjolein van Mil and Coby Guijt, two Nurse Specialists (NSs) share insights into their unique roles within the Center for Early Drug Development. Alongside their colleague in training, Lois Stam, they collectively undertake the NS responsibilities in all phase 1 studies.

The journey of a potential study participant starts with a consultation from a phase 1 physician. After a detailed explanation from the doctor and a ward nurse, if the patient agrees to participate in the study, they are then required to undergo a screening. This is a critical step to assess whether the patient meets the study's specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, encompassing medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging, among other evaluations. Herein lies the involvement of the NS: coordinating the various examinations, analyzing the results, and conducting an outpatient consultation with the patient. From that moment on, they become the primary point of contact for the patient.

During each visit to the outpatient clinic, the patient is seen by the same NS, ensuring continuity of care. At the same time, through this consistent interaction, they build a sense of trust and empathy with the patient and their relatives. This close relationship is particularly valuable for patients undergoing an early clinical or experimental treatment. If necessary, the NS can facilitate referrals to other (para)medical specialties within and beyond the NKI.

One distinctive aspect of how responsibilities are divided within the team is that the NSs work completely independently, allowing them to exercise the full functional authority inherent to their position. Over the years, the role has considerably evolved.

"I think we really have enhanced and deepened the impact of our job," Marjolein explains.

In the past, physicians used to closely monitor the activities of the NSs, whereas now there is greater reliance on their autonomy. This is also thanks to the fact that over time, the expertise of the NS has remarkably increased.

The medical knowledge of the NSs, coupled with their nursing perspectives, facilitates patient connections in a more approachable way. By combining personal care and high medical skills, the NSs ensure that the care delivered is not just effective, but also inclusive and sensitive to the circumstances of each patient.

Lastly, the NSs participate in teleconferences organized by the pharmaceutical industry, offering insights on participants' progress and discussing the overall trajectory of the study.

Despite their demanding schedules, Marjolein and Coby radiate a calmness throughout the interview that encourages further questions. Undoubtedly, this demeanor extends to their interactions with patients. Their innate caring nature, engagement with clinical practice and enthusiasm for both challenges and variety, clearly show their perfect fit within the healthcare field!