Which option is not a characteristic of informed consent?

The assertion that exculpatory language must be included in informed consent documents is not a characteristic of informed consent. Informed consent is rooted in ethical principles that prioritize the autonomy and understanding of participants. The focus is on ensuring that all relevant information about the research, including potential risks and benefits, is clearly communicated to participants so they can make an informed decision.

Informed consent should foster a participant’s ability to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty, emphasizing the voluntary nature of their participation. The absence of exculpatory language in consent forms helps to maintain the ethical integrity of the research process, ensuring that participants are not pressured to waive legal rights or release the researchers from liability for negligence.

Thus, while full disclosure, the right to withdraw, and voluntary participation are crucial aspects of informed consent, the inclusion of exculpatory language does not align with the ethical standards for obtaining consent in research.