We are based at the Hull Royal Infirmary site covering research for Paediatrics and Neonates. We are only a small core team, but we have a good infrastructure of research active principal investigators. This helps us as we develop our profile in this niche area of research.

We conduct a number of clinical trials which cover a wide range of specialities.

We aim to choose studies that will benefit our patient group and improve the care or treatment we are currently providing.

Our studies are currently looking into the following areas/specialities:

Paediatrics

• Growth Hormone Deficiency data collection
• Cystic Fibrosis antibiotic treatment
• Diabetes registry for future studies
• Acute abdominal surgery data collection
• Acute non-invasive respiratory support

Neonates

• Prevention of Chronic Lung Disease
• Pre-term feeding regimes
• Surfactant administration data collection
• Encephalopathy genetics for term babies

Research studies can range from simple questionnaires to interventional studies or clinical trials of new therapies and medical devices. We need to know: Does a treatment work? Does it work better than other treatments? Does it have any side effects? Clinical trials are designed to answer these questions.

Our aim is to ensure that every child/baby should be given the chance to participate in clinical research and by doing so contribute to improving the diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for themselves and others.

The Paediatric Research Team currently oversee any commercial, non-commercial and in-house studies for Obstetrics and Gynaecology while we do not have a dedicated Research Midwife in post.

The maternity unit at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital is committed to delivering maternity care of the highest possible standard to ensure every woman has a good birth, with the best possible experience and outcomes for the mother and her baby.

Currently we are closely liaising with The University of Hull to look at women’s experiences of pregnancy and childbirth.

Many of these studies aim to involve women in the design of the research as well as asking for their participation in the actual studies.

It is hoped that this will help women feel more empowered and involved in their present and future care.

As always, patient safety and confidentiality is our number one priority and all studies must have approvals in place to prove they are ethical and safe for patients to take part in and that their involvement and details will be kept confidential at all times.

Research is how new knowledge is gained and how new treatments are developed which allow us to provide patients with the best possible care.

Evidence suggests that patients receiving treatment in research-active NHS organisations have better outcomes.

t is important that our practice and management is underpinned by good quality research.

For more information about the studies currently available please either speak to your consultant at your next appointment or contact us.