Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Practice Exam

What does the term "IRB" stand for?

1. Independent Review Board

2. Institutional Review Board

3. International Research Board

4. Investigational Review Bureau

The correct answer is: Institutional Review Board

The term "IRB" stands for Institutional Review Board. An IRB is a committee established to review and approve research involving human subjects, ensuring that their rights, welfare, and well-being are protected. The primary function of an IRB is to review research protocols and informed consent documents to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements. While other options may sound plausible, they do not accurately represent the established terminology or the true purpose of an IRB. For instance, "Independent Review Board" may imply autonomy in decision-making but lacks the institutional context that is integral to the role of an IRB. "International Research Board" suggests a focus on global research but fails to capture the specific oversight function of an IRB in relation to institutions conducting research. "Investigational Review Bureau" is not a recognized term in the context of human subjects protection and does not convey the board's responsibilities connected to institutional oversight. Thus, Institutional Review Board is the correct and widely accepted term used in clinical research ethics.