Volume 191 - Issue 11
The ethical rap
Author: Diann S Eley
Med J Aust 2009; 191 (11): 647. || doi: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2009.tb03364.x
Published online: 7 December 2009
Published online: 7 December 2009
Here are some tips to keep in mind
And others you may simply find
Essential to your research design
Whether it’s RCT or double blind
The ethical considerations you must ponder
Ethical considerations
Are not mere exaggerations
Or NHMRC machinations
Designed to prompt procrastination
Or slow your application
Because we know there is little time at your
disposal — for work on your proposal
Above all:
Be sure your patients are content
To give to you informed consent
There is no need to reinvent
Reasons to cause malcontent
You’re just required to present
Any unclear danger or event
That may be considered torment
Or cause harm and discomfort to your participants
And:
Speaking of those who comprise your experimental troupe
Always consider those of a vulnerable group
This is of prime importance and not just another hoop
For you to jump through
Now:
Is it possible I ask?
Multi-institution review will be a thing of the past?
Best not to speculate — or move too fast
Remember the adage that good things don’t last
Indeed the number of review boards is beyond belief
So if multi-site approval is giving you grief
Be joyous and thankful — there is a portent of relief
Just get on the website and fill out the NEAF
Also keep in mind:
It’s sad but true
That expedited review is for only a few
Of those of us who knew
Exactly what to do
To construe the application
With minimal frustration
And get it through administration
Without submitting 15 hard copies . . .
And remember:
Maintaining confidentiality
Is not merely a formality
But involves matters of morality
Not to mention of legality
So choose your methods carefully
So all your risks are plain to see
The bottom line is:
To obtain ethical clearance
Takes skill and perseverance
And it’s not just for appearance
But proof of your adherence
To all ethical considerations in your research
NHMRC = National Health and Medical Research Council.
NEAF = National Ethics Application Form.