Undertake ethically sound medical education research

There are key ethical principles that need to be considered before the start of any research study. The research should be designed, reviewed and conducted in ways that ensure the integrity and the quality of the work. Researchers and research participants need to be fully informed as to the purpose, methods and possible uses of the study. Participation needs to be voluntary with a right to withdraw at any stage clearly stated. Anonymity and confidentiality must be respected and maintained, within the usual caveats of potential for danger or harm. Ethical approval must be obtained from an appropriate professional body or group. This is an essential step which should not be overlooked as it affords objective scrutiny to each piece of research and also publication will not proceed without confirmation of its having being achieved.