Question

Before participating in an experiment, individuals should read and sign the ____________ form. a. informed consent b. debriefing c. IRB d. ethics

Short answer

a. informed consent

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the terminology

Firstly, understand the terms. Informed consent is a process for getting permission before conducting a healthcare intervention on a person. A debriefing is a report about a mission or project that has been completed. The institutional review board (IRB), also known as an independent ethics committee (IEC), ethical review board (ERB), or research ethics board (REB), is a type of committee that applies research ethics by reviewing the methods proposed for research to ensure that they are ethical. Lastly, ethics is the branch of knowledge that deals with moral principles.

Choosing the right term

From the above definitions, informed consent seems most appropriate. This is because it is a process of gaining permission before conducting a healthcare experiment on a person.

Confirming the answer

Seeing that informed consent aligns with the statement, confirm \(a. informed consent\) as the correct answer.

Key concepts

Research Ethics

Research ethics are the core principles that guide how scientific investigations are conducted. They ensure that research is done in a morally and ethically responsible way. This is important to protect the participants and maintain the integrity of the research. Ethical principles in research include

• Obtaining informed consent from participants
• Ensuring privacy and confidentiality
• Minimizing harm and maximizing benefits
• Being honest and transparent with participants

Research ethics are essential because they establish trust between researchers and participants and build public confidence in research findings.
By adhering to ethical guidelines, researchers can prevent unethical practices, such as data falsification and mistreatment of subjects, whether human or animal.
This creates a foundation for high-quality and reliable research outcomes that can positively influence society.

Institutional Review Board

An Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a committee responsible for ensuring that research involving human participants is carried out ethically and safely. The IRB reviews research proposals before the study begins, focusing on potential risks and benefits to participants. IRBs ensure that studies comply with ethical standards by

• Reviewing informed consent documents to ensure clarity and comprehensibility
• Ensuring participant privacy is protected
• Evaluating the study's risk-to-benefit ratio

Their primary role is to protect the welfare of research participants while balancing the need for scientific advancement. IRBs approve or disapprove studies based on these criteria.
Their existence helps maintain ethical standards across universities, research institutions, and healthcare organizations, reinforcing trust in scientific research and its outcomes.

Debriefing

Debriefing is an essential part of ethical research involving human participants. After the study concludes, participants receive a debrief explaining the study's purpose, procedures, and findings. The debriefing process is important because it

• Ensures participants fully understand the study they were part of
• Allows participants to ask questions about the research
• Addresses any potential distress caused by the study

Debriefing not only reinforces transparency but also respects participants by keeping them informed. It is a chance for researchers to rectify any misunderstandings and offer support if needed.
Overall, debriefing is crucial in maintaining ethical standards by providing a clear closure to the study for participants, ensuring they leave the research process with no unresolved issues or confusion.