What Ethical Considerations are Evaluated by the IRB?
The IRB evaluates several ethical considerations, including:
Informed Consent: Ensuring that participants are fully informed about the research, including its purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits, and that they voluntarily agree to participate. Privacy and Confidentiality: Protecting the personal and sensitive data of participants from unauthorized access or disclosure. Risk-Benefit Analysis: Assessing whether the potential benefits of the research outweigh the risks to participants. Vulnerable Populations: Providing additional safeguards for groups that may be at higher risk of coercion or undue influence, such as children, pregnant women, or economically disadvantaged individuals.