Which scenario would be most likely eligible for expedited IRB review?

Which scenario would be most likely eligible for expedited IRB review?

• A. A study involving adult participants with minimal risk.
• B. A study involving prisoners.
• C. A study involving deception.
• D. A study that requires full board due to high risk.

Answer: (A)

Expedited IRB review is used when the research involves no more than minimal risk and fits the categories that allow faster review. Minimal risk means the chance and magnitude of harm are not greater than those encountered in daily life or during routine exams. The scenario with adult participants and minimal risk fits this, so it can be reviewed by the IRB chair or designated members rather than the full board, allowing quicker oversight while still protecting participants. The other scenarios generally require more oversight. Involvement of prisoners introduces a vulnerable population with additional protections, making expedited review unlikely. Deception raises ethical concerns about informed consent and potential harm, and typically warrants full board discussion. A study that requires full board due to high risk clearly falls outside expedited review.

Expedited IRB review is used when the research involves no more than minimal risk and fits the categories that allow faster review. Minimal risk means the chance and magnitude of harm are not greater than those encountered in daily life or during routine exams. The scenario with adult participants and minimal risk fits this, so it can be reviewed by the IRB chair or designated members rather than the full board, allowing quicker oversight while still protecting participants.

The other scenarios generally require more oversight. Involvement of prisoners introduces a vulnerable population with additional protections, making expedited review unlikely. Deception raises ethical concerns about informed consent and potential harm, and typically warrants full board discussion. A study that requires full board due to high risk clearly falls outside expedited review.