What type of research is likely to necessitate a full board review by the IRB?

Research involving vulnerable populations is likely to necessitate a full board review by the IRB because these groups may require additional protections due to their circumstances. Vulnerable populations can include children, pregnant women, prisoners, and individuals with cognitive impairments, among others. The rationale behind this heightened scrutiny is that these groups may not have the same capacity as others to provide informed consent or may be at greater risk of coercion or undue influence.

For research involving vulnerable populations, the IRB must ensure that the study design minimizes risks and maximizes benefits, and that appropriate safeguards are in place. The review process conducted by the full board allows for a thorough evaluation, considering the ethical implications and ensuring that the rights and welfare of participants are prioritized.

In contrast, research with minimal risk may qualify for an expedited review process, where it does not require the same level of oversight. Research involving healthy volunteers might also not pose as significant ethical concerns compared to studies with vulnerable individuals, and quality improvement studies often focus on internal program enhancements rather than research on human subjects. These factors contribute to why research involving vulnerable populations is treated with greater caution and oversight.