Ethics-Governance: Article: eMJA: Komesaroff, Clinical research in the emergency setting: the role of ethics committees

Ethics & Governance - Resources and Articles

Articles indexes: a \| b \| c \| d \| e \| f \| g \| h \| i \| j \| k \| l \| m \| n \| o \| p \| q \| r \| s \| t \| u \| v \| w \| x \| y \| z \| other

Article - Abstract. To view full article click on the article title.
eMJA: Komesaroff, Clinical research in the emergency setting: the role of ethics committees Clinical research in the emergency setting: the role of ethics committees It is important that discussions and decision-making processes be free, open and transparent MJA 2001; 175: 630-631 Probably because of its mixed history of triumph and abuse, medical research has always been regarded with a combination of awe and suspicion. Not surprisingly, research into innovative technologies and dangerous illnesses arouses particular anxieties, and sometimes public controversy. The complexities associated with clinical research in the emergency setting are illustrated by the story recounted in this issue of the Journal of the trial proposed by investigators at Sydney's Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) to compare two models of care for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).1 While fibrinolysis has been standard treatment for AMI since the mid-1980s, evidence has suggested that coronary artery angioplasty with stenting produces better outcomes. However, the latter treatment requires advanced technology and skills, limiting its availability. Accordingly, it was proposed to conduct a randomised trial to compare outcomes for patients with AMI of transport to the nearest regional hospital for "conventional" treatment versus transport to RNSH for possible angioplasty. . . . the scientific questions are well founded and the answers are likely to carry significant implications for medical practice around the world. Two major issues were recognised from the outset: Patients assigned to RNSH would often experience increased transport times to hospital; and It would be difficult to obtain patients' fully informed consent. The first issue is important because delays in initiating treatment after AMI increase the risk of death. Full Article: http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/175_12_171201/komesaroff/komesaroff.html


2006 Ethics-Governance.com