Intensive care units may take part in clinical research studies in order to advance medical knowledge and improve patient care. These studies are conducted under strict safety and confidentiality requirements, in accordance with national and European regulations.
When a patient meets the criteria for inclusion in a research protocol, the healthcare team explains the study protocol and its implications in detail and invites the patient to take part. If the patient is unable to make this decision themselves, the study is presented to their designated trusted person, or to the main family contact if the patient has not appointed a trusted person.
A written information sheet is provided, and the healthcare team remains available to answer any further questions from the patient, their trusted person or the main family contact. Participation is always voluntary, and the patient may withdraw or object at any time without having to give a reason. Refusing to take part in research, whether at the outset or later, will have no adverse effect on the quality of care or the relationship with the healthcare team.
Clinical studies improve our understanding of diseases and help develop better approaches to prevention, diagnosis and treatment. By taking part, patients and healthcare teams contribute to research that may benefit other patients as well as the participating patient, who may potentially receive an innovative treatment when this is part of the protocol. Whether or not a person takes part in a study, the healthcare team will always do everything possible to provide the highest quality of care.