Week 4 Discussion 2
Watch the interactive video on ethical research from the nurse’s perspective. (Detailed directions on accessing the research interactive scenario are included in the course.) Conducting research with strong ethical principles is a critical component of being an effective nurse researcher. What did you learn from participating in the interactive lessons on ethical principles in research? Are ethics in research clear cut, or do you think there are some gray areas? Explain your answer. How will you ensure that your research is conducted in an ethical manner? What potential challenges might you face?
Attached is the link for the interactive video. Copy and paste the link on google and it works
https://ori.hhs.gov/research-clinic
Participating in the interactive lessons on ethical principles in research provided valuable insights into the complexities and nuances of conducting research with integrity, particularly from the perspective of a nurse researcher. One of the key takeaways was the importance of informed consent and the need to ensure that participants fully understand the purpose, risks, and benefits of the research before consenting to participate. Additionally, the interactive scenarios emphasized the significance of maintaining confidentiality and privacy to protect participants’ sensitive information.
Ethics in research are not always clear-cut and may involve navigating various gray areas, especially when balancing the potential benefits of the research with potential risks to participants. For example, researchers may face dilemmas regarding the appropriate level of disclosure about potential risks or uncertainties associated with the research. Moreover, issues such as conflicts of interest, data manipulation, and coercion of participants can further complicate ethical decision-making in research.
To ensure that my research is conducted in an ethical manner, I will adhere to established ethical guidelines and principles outlined by regulatory bodies such as the Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the Declaration of Helsinki. This includes obtaining informed consent from participants, protecting their confidentiality and privacy, minimizing risks, and ensuring that the research is conducted with honesty and integrity. Additionally, maintaining ongoing communication and collaboration with colleagues and mentors can provide valuable guidance and support in navigating ethical challenges that may arise during the research process.
Potential challenges in conducting research ethically may include obtaining truly informed consent from vulnerable populations such as children, individuals with cognitive impairments, or those from marginalized communities. Ensuring voluntary participation and minimizing coercion or undue influence in these situations may require additional sensitivity and tailored approaches. Furthermore, balancing the demands of research ethics with the practical considerations of study design, data collection, and dissemination of findings can present ongoing challenges for nurse researchers. Regular self-reflection, ethical deliberation, and consultation with colleagues and ethics committees can help mitigate these challenges and uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in research.