Principles of ethical research

By defi nition, research seeks to explore something that is unknown. This uncertainty means there is always the possibility of harm arising from research. There are many examples in both near and distant history of serious harm to participants as a consequence of research, including permanent disability and death. This is why it is of great importance that research projects are informed by sound ethics, properly planned, approved by an independent ethical board and rigorously monitored throughout the duration of the study. This chapter will introduce four principles that govern the conduct of ethical research using relevant case examples to bring each principle to life. Topics explored in the chapter include: • The importance of ‘informed consent’ • Assessment of capacity to provide consent • Measures to minimise and manage harm arising from planned research • The importance of ensuring that possible benefi ts of the research outweigh the risks and costs to participants • Ensuring that participants are treated fairly and equally throughout the study