Participating in a clinical research study can be an amazing experience. It’s a chance to help advance research, investigational drugs, and devices. During a study, participants receive new drugs and devices that aren’t yet available to the public. Because these drugs and devices are new, researchers keep a close eye on participants. Which means participants may stay overnight for observation. If you are going to be taking part in your first study soon, learning what to pack for an overnight clinical research study will help you prepare for your adventure.
What to Pack for an Overnight Clinical Research Study
Clinical research studies are designed to allow researchers to study the effects of an investigational drug or device in a safe and scientific manner. Different facilities have different guidelines, so always check the rules provided by the organization that you’re working with carefully. If you have questions, ask for clarification. Clearly, these differences will have some impact on what goes in your suitcase. However, it’s helpful to have a basic list of what to pack for an overnight clinical research study. It’s also handy to have a list of what not to pack.
The thought of staying at a Clinical Research Facility can rattle nerves, so putting together a packing list can increase the odds that you’ll arrive with everything that you need for your stay. If you’re participating in an overnight clinical research study, consider packing the following items:
- Identification and medical records. Identification will be required to check in, so have it handy.
- Approved medications. If you had certain medications that were approved by your doctors, and you were told to bring them to the clinical research study, be sure to pack them. Do not bring anything not approved.
- Clothing. Clara Health suggests packing one comfortable outfit for each day that you’ll be on-site and one extra set.. Put practicality over style here. Look for lightweight, flexible fabrics that breathe. Athletic gear is often a good choice. Shirts should fit comfortably. Pants should be loose-fitting. However, they shouldn’t be a tripping hazard. Don’t forget to include slippers — ones that allow you to go outdoors are ideal. Robes are also handy in case the rooms are chilly.
- Toiletries. Some studies provide toiletries. If the one that you’re joining doesn’t, bring along travel-sized versions of the basics from home. Check to see if there are any restrictions. Some facilities won’t allow medicated products, which could limit your choices of things like shampoos and body washes. Also, some places restrict products that contain alcohol. This could make bringing certain items like mouthwash, perfume, or body spray taboo.
- Assistive items and cases. If you routinely use eyeglasses or hearing aids or similar assistive items, bring them with you. In addition, bring the cases that you store them in overnight. Do you wear dentures? Don’t forget your case.
- Journal. Having a space to write down your thoughts and questions about the experience can make the entire adventure more pleasant.
- Entertainment. Bring books, magazines, and a playlist with earphones so that you can enjoy music. Many clinics and facilities offer free Wi-Fi. If you bring a phone or tablet, you can entertain yourself with the internet.
Items Not to Pack When Participating in an Overnight Clinical Research Study
Some things that are best left at home when you’re participating in a clinical research study. Mayo Clinic offers a list:
- Jewelry. Jewelry has to be removed for many procedures. Whether its value is monetary or sentimental, it’s best to leave it at home.
- Cash. Large amounts of cash are unnecessary and could be a risk.
Packing strategically for an overnight clinical research study can help you get the most out of your participation.
Have you ever thought about participating in a clinical research study? You could be a part of history! QPS Missouri is looking for new participants. Since opening its doors in 1994, QPS Missouri has conducted more than 1,500 FDA-regulated studies, paying out nearly $50 million to local participants. Your participation could have a global impact, as QPS is an international leader in contract research with facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia. Our mission is to accelerate the development of drugs worldwide by enabling breakthroughs in pharmaceutical innovation. If you would like to join us in this crucial healthcare mission, consider applying for a clinical research study.
To get started, you simply need to fill out an online application. After that, within 48 business hours, a recruiting coordinator will contact you for your pre-screening assessment. To learn more, please visit the QPS Missouri website, review the study participation process, or check out our list of frequently asked questions.