Module 2: Ethical considerations

Question 1

TCPS ll

Answer 1

Tri-council policy statement ll (statement that provides guidelines for research involving humans)

Question 2

1) Respect for persons

Answer 2

-recognizing autonomy of individual
-need for informed consent
-intrinsic value of individuals (deserve respect and consideration)
-recognize individual capacity to make their own choices (should be respected)

Question 2

2) concern for welfare

Answer 2

-ensure participants aren’t exposed to unnecessary risks
-protection of privacy
-consider physical, mental, and social affects

Question 3

3) justice

Answer 3

-fair and equitable treatment of all participants
-ensure benefits and burdens are equally distributed

Question 4

informed consent

Answer 4

-fully informed of purpose/participation of study
-aware of rights, potential risks/benefits
-include right to withdraw at any point w/out penalty

Question 5

confidentiality

Answer 5

-protect privacy
-keep personal info confidential
-ensure data is stored securely

Question 6

minimizing harm

Answer 6

-minimize physical harm (invasive/risky)
-minimize psychological harm (stress)
-minimize social harm (stigma/discrimination)

Question 7

Animal ethics

Answer 7

-refinement
-replacement
-reduction

Question 8

reduction (3R’s)

Answer 8

-strategy to use fewest animals
-maximize info per animal
-obtain sufficient info for question (no more)

Question 9

replacement (3R’s)

Answer 9

-avoid using animals if possible
-absolute: replace w/ inanimate systems (computer)
-relative: replace w/ less sensitive/cognitive creatures (vertebrates for invertebrates)

Question 10

refinement (3R’s)

Answer 10

-modification of care/procedure to minimize pain and distress
-animal care
-training of personnel

Question 11

nonmaleficence

Answer 11

-do no harm
-“primum non nocere”

Question 12

beneficence

Answer 12

-balance of pros and cons

Question 13

steps for ethical decision making (9)

Answer 13

1) ethical sensitivity
2) consult code of ethics
3) search ethics literature
4) self-awareness
5) apply ethical principles
6) develop alternative courses of action
7) consult w/ colleagues
8) take action
9) reflect on results of your actions