Videorecording in clinical research: mapping the ethical terrain

Area of Science:

• Clinical Research
• Medical Ethics
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Videography is increasingly used for data collection in clinical research.
• Investigators face significant challenges in addressing ethical issues and obtaining IRB approval for videography.
• Limited literature exists on guidelines and strategies for ethical videography in research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify ethical issues associated with using videography in patient-oriented research.
• To provide specific strategies for managing ethical considerations in clinical research involving videorecording.
• To protect the interests of patients and clinicians participating in videorecorded studies.

Main Methods:

• The Study of Patient-Nurse Effectiveness with Assisted Communication Strategies (SPENCE) trial is used as a case example.
• Illustrates management of ethical issues including informed consent, confidentiality, privacy, participant burden, and safety.
• Excerpts from informed consent documents are provided, focusing on critical care, vulnerable populations, and clinician participants.

Main Results:

• Ethical issues concerning videography in acute care patient research are clarified.
• Specific, practical examples are provided for addressing informed consent, privacy, and participant safety.
• The study highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of the research environment.

Conclusions:

• Ethical issues in acute care videorecording research can be managed effectively.
• Existing universal human subjects protection strategies are applicable when ethical issues are clearly defined.
• Thoughtful planning and clear definition of ethical issues are key to successful implementation of videography in research.