What action should researchers take if they encounter unexpected risks linked to their research?

Researchers should report unexpected risks linked to their research promptly to the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for several important reasons. The IRB's primary role is to ensure the protection of human subjects in research, and it has the authority and responsibility to assess and address any risks that arise throughout the research process. By reporting unexpected risks, researchers allow the IRB to evaluate the situation, determine the severity of the risk, and decide on appropriate actions, such as modifying the study protocol, informing participants, or implementing additional safeguards.

Timely reporting helps to uphold ethical standards and ensures that participant safety remains the priority throughout the research. It also maintains integrity in the research process by demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability regarding the well-being of participants. This action aligns with ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements governing human subjects research, which aim to protect participants from harm and ensure their rights are upheld.