Perspectives of Egyptian research ethics committees regarding their effective functioning
1American University, Cairo, Egypt.
Summary
Research ethics committees (RECs) in the Middle East face challenges hindering their effectiveness. Addressing issues like membership, resources, and informed consent is crucial for improving research oversight.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Research Administration
- Middle Eastern Studies
Background:
- The Middle East has seen a rise in research activities.
- The establishment of research ethics committees (RECs) parallels this growth.
- Understanding REC challenges is vital for ethical research conduct.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the perspectives of RECs in the Middle East.
- To identify challenges impeding the effective functioning of RECs.
Main Methods:
- In-depth interviews were conducted with RECs.
- A semi-structured interview guide was utilized.
- Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically.
Main Results:
- Key themes identified include: membership composition, training needs, resource availability (human and capital), national government role, informed consent process concerns, government scrutiny, investigator-related issues, and biological sample transfer.
- Several barriers were uncovered that affect REC operations.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights significant barriers to effective REC functioning in the Middle East.
- Stakeholders must address these identified challenges to enhance REC performance and ensure ethical research standards.
Related Concept Videos
01:56Ethics in Research
Today, scientists agree that good research is ethical in nature and is guided by a basic respect for human dignity and safety. However, this has not always been the case. Modern researchers must demonstrate that the research they perform is ethically sound.
01:30Ethical Dilemmas II
Resolving an ethical dilemma in healthcare involves a systematic approach that considers every aspect of the issue, respecting both the patient's needs and values and the healthcare professional's ethical obligations. Here are potential steps to resolve an ethical dilemma:
01:17Ethical Dilemmas I
Ethical dilemmas in nursing are of utmost importance, as they often arise from the tension between adhering to core ethical principles and the practical realities of healthcare delivery. These dilemmas require nurses to navigate complex situations where competing ethical considerations pull them in different directions.
Let us explore some examples to understand the potentially complex moral decisions nurses face.
Take the case of caring for minors, particularly in areas related to reproductive...
Let us explore some examples to understand the potentially complex moral decisions nurses face.
Take the case of caring for minors, particularly in areas related to reproductive...
01:27Ethical Issues
Nurses are essential in patient care, upholding the ethical principles of their profession and effectively navigating ethical dilemmas. Neglecting ethical issues can lead to inadequate patient care, compromised therapeutic relationships, and moral distress among healthcare workers.
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare:
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare:
01:22Ethics and Bioethics
Ethics is a philosophical study of moral actions. Ethics attempts to determine what is valuable for individuals and society. It examines the rational justification of moral judgments and analyzes what is morally just, fair, and right. Bioethics is a sub-discipline of applied ethics that analyzes the philosophical, social, and legal issues in life sciences and medicine. Ethical theories serve as a foundation for decision-making and represent the viewpoints from which people seek direction. They...
01:30Psychosurgery
Psychosurgery, the surgical alteration or permanent removal of brain tissue to alleviate severe psychological conditions, stands as one of the most radical and controversial treatments in the history of mental health care. Its development and application have evolved significantly, marked by dramatic shifts in scientific understanding and ethical perspectives.
Historical Development of Psychosurgery
In the 1930s, Portuguese neurologist Antonio Egas Moniz introduced a surgical procedure designed...
Historical Development of Psychosurgery
In the 1930s, Portuguese neurologist Antonio Egas Moniz introduced a surgical procedure designed...