Search published articles


Showing 26 results for Consent
Ethical Considerations in the Application of Stem Cell Technology in Research and Clinical Practice
Rasool Esmalipour, Narges Dastmalchi , Khalil Hajiasgharzadeh,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Stem cell technology and regenerative medicine are interdisciplinary fields that integrate engineering, molecular and cellular biology, and medical science to repair tissues and treat diseases using stem cell-based methods. The primary goal of this scientific field is to enhance the quality of life by replacing damaged cells and tissues with healthy ones, thereby improving injuries and disabilities. With recent advances in biomedical science and the unique potential of stem cells in treating diseases, ethical considerations surrounding this technology have become increasingly significant. Following a brief introduction to stem cell technology, this review explores ethical challenges, including the justifications for using stem cells, informed consent from patients, preservation of human dignity, and the social and cultural impacts associated with their application. As research in this field continues to expand, yielding numerous innovative findings and attracting growing interest from researchers, there has also been an increase in unproven commercial treatments that have not undergone necessary regulatory stages. The direct marketing of products in preclinical stages to consumers further underscores the importance of ethical considerations in the use of stem cells. Additionally, the unprincipled use of stem cells may lead to adverse effects, such as cancer or vascular diseases, exacerbating patients' conditions rather than improving them. The findings of this review emphasize the need to adapt existing laws and regulations to address ethical concerns and provide recommendations for enhancing ethical standards in clinical research involving stem cells. The results can serve as a guide for researchers and policymakers in addressing ethical challenges in stem cell research, ultimately improving the quality and safety of clinical research in cell therapy and regenerative medicine.

Evaluation of Participants' Awareness of Informed Consent Forms in Clinical Trials at Iran University of Medical Sciences in 2020
Fatemeh Hekmatian, Akram Hashemi, Soodabeh Hoveida Manesh, Saeedeh Saeedi Tehrani,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Obtaining informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal right of participants in clinical trials. It ensures that individuals are adequately informed about the research, including its nature, potential risks and benefits, and their role in the study. This knowledge empowers participants to make informed decisions about their involvement. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness of participants regarding the information provided in informed consent forms (ICFs) for clinical trials conducted at Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) in 2020. This study evaluated the accuracy of the content of ICFs of registered clinical trials and assessed participants' understanding of the information presented. ICFs were reviewed using a ministerial checklist. Participants were subsequently contacted to assess their comprehension of key aspects of the trial as outlined in the ICF. Analysis revealed a discrepancy between the information presented in the ICFs and participants' actual understanding. Despite adequate coverage of certain aspects, such as the research nature of the interventions (98.2%) and the mention of specific benefits (92.7%), significant gaps were observed in participants' comprehension of crucial information. Notably, lower levels of understanding were observed regarding the possibility of invasive interventions (25.7%), the random assignment of participants to study groups and the potential use of placebos (44%), and the possibility of not personally benefiting from the research outcomes (44%). Additionally, only 47.7% of participants reported understanding the confidentiality of their information. These findings highlight the need for improvements in the process of obtaining informed consent. While researchers may adequately address the overall research objectives and potential benefits, crucial aspects such as the potential for invasiveness, randomization procedures, and the possibility of no direct personal benefit may not be adequately communicated to participants. Enhancing participant understanding of these critical aspects is crucial for ensuring truly informed consent and upholding ethical research practices.

Assessment of Compliance with the Patients’ Rights Charter by Healthcare Staff from the Perspective of Hospitalized Patients in Shahid Rahnemoon Hospital, Yazd
Tahereh Shafaghat, Elahe Rahmani Samani, Elnaz Haiery, Atiyeh Dehghan Niri, Zahra Raisi,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
An efficient healthcare system relies on active participation and a strong relationship between healthcare providers and recipients. Observing the Patients’ Rights Charter is an essential aspect of delivering high-quality healthcare services. However, the existence, formulation, and dissemination of the charter do not ensure its implementation and compliance. Therefore, evaluating adherence to the charter is critical. This study aimed to assess compliance with the Patients’ Rights Charter at Shahid Rahnemoon Hospital, Yazd. This applied, descriptive-analytical study was conducted cross-sectionally at Shahid Rahnemoon Hospital, Yazd, in 2024. The study population included all hospitalized patients in the hospital. Cluster random sampling was used, and a standardized questionnaire developed by Parsapour et al. measured adherence to the Patients’ Rights Charter. Data analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests via SPSS software version 26. The findings revealed that patients perceived an average level of adherence to the Patients’ Rights Charter in Shahid Rahnemoon Hospital (mean ± SD: 53.99 ± 11.10). The highest compliance was observed in the domain of respect for patients and protection of privacy (mean ± SD: 78.12 ± 2.65), whereas the lowest compliance was reported for the existence of a complaint resolution system (mean ± SD: 2.97 ± 1.74). Patient satisfaction, a vital indicator of healthcare quality, is closely linked to the observance of patients’ rights. To improve compliance, it is recommended to:
1. Raise staff awareness about the importance of adhering to patients’ rights.
2. Educate patients about their rights through staff training and media campaigns.
3. Develop plans by hospital management to address areas of non-compliance.
4. Foster greater collaboration between staff and patients.
5. Follow up on violations of patients’ rights and implement legal measures to ensure compliance.
6. Regularly monitor adherence to patients’ rights to enhance patient satisfaction and staff commitment to ethical practices.

Ethical Challenges of Nurses in Caring for Patients with Chronic Mental Illness
Alireza Zare, Mohammad Hossein Taklif, Alireza Javid, Zahra Amadeh, Negin Farid,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Nurses, as key members of the healthcare team, face complex ethical issues when caring for patients with chronic mental illnesses. These challenges include maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent from patients with limited cognitive abilities, managing conflicts between patient rights and safety requirements, and addressing social stigma. Inadequate attention to these challenges may lead to reduced care quality and psychological stress for nurses. A better understanding of these challenges and the provision of appropriate solutions is essential. This study was conducted through a simple review approach. A comprehensive search was first conducted in PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar databases. Combined keywords such as "ethical challenges," "nursing," "chronic mental illness patients," and "ethical care" were used. Inclusion criteria included studies published in English and Persian from 2010 to 2023, including research, review, and qualitative articles related to the topic. A total of 150 articles were identified, and after evaluating their quality and relevance, 30 articles were selected for final analysis. Data were analyzed using thematic and comparative analysis methods. The findings revealed that nurses face multiple challenges, including maintaining confidentiality when interacting with families, obtaining informed consent from patients with cognitive disorders, and managing ethical conflicts between patient safety and individual freedom. Additionally, a lack of specialized ethical training, the absence of clear protocols, and the pressure from the social stigma of patients were identified as key challenges. The ethical challenges faced by nurses in caring for patients with chronic mental illness require special attention from relevant organizations. Providing continuous education, developing ethical guidelines, and creating psychological and legal support can help mitigate these challenges. Further studies on practical, experience-based solutions to address these issues are recommended.

Nursing Ethics in the Care of Elderly Patients: A Review of Challenges and Solutions
Alireza Zare, Mohammad Hossein Taklif, Alireza Javid, Zahra Amadeh, Negin Farid,
Volume 17, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
As the global elderly population continues to rise, nursing care for this demographic faces increasing ethical challenges. The elderly are particularly vulnerable, requiring specialized care that addresses their physical, psychological, and social needs. However, these needs often present ethical dilemmas, including issues related to autonomy, informed consent, fairness in resource allocation, and managing conflicts between patients and their families. This systematic review aims to identify the ethical challenges nurses face in caring for elderly patients and to propose solutions that enhance the quality of care. A comprehensive search was conducted across several reputable databases, including PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "nursing ethics", "elderly", "ethical challenges", and "ethical care". Articles published between 2010 and 2023 in English and Persian were considered for inclusion. After an initial screening, 40 eligible articles were selected for final analysis, and thematic analysis was used to interpret the data. The findings reveal several key ethical challenges for nurses in elderly care, including respecting patient autonomy, navigating decision-making processes in cases of cognitive decline, ensuring confidentiality, and managing family pressures. Additional difficulties include resource shortages, high workload, and limited access to ethics training. Proposed solutions to address these challenges include continuous ethics education, the development of comprehensive ethics protocols, and the formation of interdisciplinary teams to facilitate more informed decision-making. Addressing ethical challenges in elderly care requires robust planning and action from health systems. By establishing clear ethical guidelines, promoting ongoing education, and fostering a supportive work environment, the quality of care for elderly patients can be significantly improved. Further research should evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies in mitigating ethical issues within nursing practice.

Is the Use of Video Recording Important in the Intensive Care Unit?
Parsa Farmahin Farahany, Zahra Torkashvand,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2025)
Abstract
 One of the key ethical-legal concerns in the medical profession is patients’ trust in the quality of care and adherence to professional standards. This viewpoint explored the ethical-legal dimensions of using surveillance cameras in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), focusing on a specific legal-ethical case. In this scenario, the patients’ family caregivers express doubt about the quality of care and request access to recorded footage. From an ethical-legal perspective, documenting events by the medical team—provided that privacy, data protection regulations, and visual monitoring standards are respected—can help safeguard patients’ rights, clarify staff performance, and prevent legal misunderstandings. While acknowledging the potential benefits, this study also outlined legal considerations, such as patient notification, access limitations, and data management protocols. The key conclusion is that the use of cameras in ICUs, if aligned with legal and institutional requirements, can enhance trust, demonstrate ethical compliance, and reduce legal complaints.

Page 2 from 2     

© 2026 , Tehran University of Medical Sciences, CC BY-NC 4.0

Designed & Developed by: Yektaweb