What is the role of a Clinical Research Associate (CRA)?

The role of a Clinical Research Associate (CRA) primarily involves monitoring trial sites to ensure compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, as well as federal regulations and the study protocol. This monitoring process is crucial because it helps maintain the integrity of the research, protecting the rights and well-being of the participants while ensuring data quality and reliability. The CRA conducts regular visits to trial sites to verify that the study is being conducted properly, that the data being collected is accurate, and that any issues are promptly identified and addressed.

In contrast, other roles outlined in the choices focus on different aspects of clinical research. Conducting the clinical trial procedures is typically the responsibility of investigators or clinical trial staff rather than the CRA. Analyzing study results is usually performed by statisticians or data analysts following the completion of the trial, not by the CRA. Providing medical support to participants is generally the role of clinicians or healthcare providers associated with the trial, rather than the CRA. Therefore, monitoring for GCP adherence best describes the main function of a CRA in the clinical research setting.