Enhancing Participant Understanding
Investing time at the initial informed
consent discussion will most likely improve subject retention and compliance
to the study protocol down the road. Below are some suggestions to enhance participant
understanding.
- Present information in a relaxed,
clear, unhurried manner
- Allow sufficient time for the
participant to read the consent and make an informed decision
- Encourage questions and reiterate
important points
- Ask the participant to paraphrase
the important elements of the study before making his/her decision and signing
the consent document