What practice can be used to ensure ethical standards are maintained in research studies?

Conducting a thorough Institutional Review Board (IRB) review is crucial for ensuring ethical standards are maintained in research studies. The IRB is responsible for reviewing research proposals to ensure the protection of human subjects and adherence to ethical guidelines. This process includes evaluating the risks and benefits of the research, ensuring informed consent will be obtained from participants, and confirming that the research complies with applicable laws and ethical standards. A thorough review helps identify potential ethical issues before the research begins, providing a framework for researchers to conduct their studies responsibly and ethically.

Other practices, such as minimizing stakeholder involvement or adopting technology without regulation, may compromise ethical standards by disregarding important perspectives and safety considerations. Increasing the complexity of the consent process can lead to confusion for participants, potentially hindering their ability to give informed consent. Therefore, relying on a well-structured IRB review is essential for maintaining ethical integrity in research.