The use of a consent form approved by the IRB is an example of which Belmont principle?

The use of a consent form that has been approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) exemplifies the Belmont principle of respect for persons. This principle emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and protecting the autonomy of research participants. Informed consent is a crucial aspect of this principle, as it ensures that individuals are given adequate information about the study, understand the risks and benefits involved, and voluntarily agree to participate without coercion.

By requiring a consent form, the IRB reinforces the idea that individuals should have the right to make informed decisions regarding their participation in research. This process respects their autonomy and recognizes them as independent agents capable of making choices about their own lives. Furthermore, the consent form serves to protect vulnerable populations from potential exploitation, aligning with the ethical obligation to treat participants with dignity and respect.