Trial Identification Number - Nursing Science

What is a Trial Identification Number?

A Trial Identification Number is a unique identifier assigned to a clinical trial when it is registered. This number is crucial for tracking and referencing the study in various databases and publications. It ensures that the trial can be easily identified and accessed by researchers, healthcare professionals, and the public.

Why is it Important in Nursing?

In the field of nursing, the Trial Identification Number is significant for several reasons. It facilitates the integration of evidence-based practices by allowing nurses to access and review clinical trial data. This ensures that patient care is informed by the latest research findings. Additionally, it helps in avoiding duplicate studies and promotes the efficient use of resources.

How is the Trial Identification Number Assigned?

The Trial Identification Number is usually assigned by regulatory bodies or clinical trial registries, such as ClinicalTrials.gov or the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP). Researchers must submit detailed information about their study to these registries, which then issue a unique identification number.

What Information is Associated with the Trial Identification Number?

When a trial is registered and assigned a Trial Identification Number, several key pieces of information are documented, including:
Title of the study
Principal investigator and study team
Objectives and hypotheses
Methodology
Inclusion and exclusion criteria
Interventions and outcomes measured
Study locations
Funding sources
This comprehensive information helps in maintaining transparency and allows for thorough review and analysis by the nursing community and other stakeholders.

How Can Nurses Access Trial Information Using the Identification Number?

Nurses can access trial information by entering the Trial Identification Number into databases such as ClinicalTrials.gov or other relevant registries. These platforms provide detailed records of registered trials, including their status, results, and any available publications. This can be particularly useful for clinical decision-making and staying updated on new medical advancements.

What are the Benefits of Using Trial Identification Numbers?

Using Trial Identification Numbers offers several benefits:
Enhanced transparency and accountability in clinical research
Improved tracking and monitoring of ongoing and completed trials
Easier access to research findings and outcomes
Facilitation of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Support for reproducibility of studies

Potential Challenges

Despite its numerous advantages, there are some challenges associated with the Trial Identification Number system. These include inconsistencies in registration practices, variations in the quality of the information provided, and the need for better integration across different registries. Addressing these challenges is essential for maximizing the utility and reliability of trial identification numbers in nursing and other healthcare fields.

Conclusion

The Trial Identification Number plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality and accessibility of clinical research in nursing. By promoting transparency, facilitating access to trial data, and supporting evidence-based practice, it helps ensure that patient care is guided by the most current and reliable research findings. Nurses and other healthcare professionals must be aware of how to utilize these identifiers effectively to stay informed and make informed clinical decisions.

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