Institutional Review Boards (IRB)

Definition

Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are committees established to review and approve research involving human subjects. They ensure that the research complies with ethical standards and federal regulations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. IRBs are responsible for protecting the rights and welfare of human research subjects.
2. Approval from an IRB is required before any data collection involving human subjects can begin.
3. IRBs assess the risks and benefits of proposed research to ensure minimal risk to participants.
4. Informed consent from participants is a crucial element reviewed by IRBs to guarantee voluntary participation.
5. IRBs must adhere to guidelines set forth by regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Related terms

Informed Consent:

A process through which participants are fully informed about the procedures and risks involved in a study, ensuring their voluntary participation.

Ethical Standards: Guidelines that help researchers conduct studies in ways that respect the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants.

Human Subjects: Individuals who participate in research studies, providing data through interactions or interventions.