Investigating Moral Distress in Clinical Research Professionals-A Deep Dive into Troubled Waters

Area of Science:

• Clinical research ethics
• Occupational health in research

Background:

• Moral distress is recognized in healthcare but underexplored in clinical research.
• Clinical research professionals (CRPs) face unique ethical challenges.
• Understanding moral distress is vital for CRPs' well-being and research integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the root causes of moral distress among CRPs.
• To explore the unique ethical landscape of clinical research.
• To investigate the impact of systemic issues on CRPs.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving interviews with ten CRPs.
• Thematic analysis of interview data to identify patterns.
• Exploration of contributing factors to moral distress.

Main Results:

• Four major themes emerged: commodification of research, participant welfare concerns, compromised scientific integrity, and hierarchical structures.
• Racism was identified as a significant source of moral distress.
• CRPs face ethical conflicts impacting their professional identity.

Conclusions:

• Moral distress is a significant issue within the clinical research field.
• Addressing moral distress is essential for the welfare of CRPs.
• Systemic changes are needed to mitigate moral distress in clinical research.