OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What ethical concern is associated with studying patients with severe brain damage?

1. Difficulty in obtaining funding

2. Lack of informed consent

3. Challenges in locating suitable subjects

4. Insufficient research methods

The correct answer is: Lack of informed consent

Lack of informed consent is a significant ethical concern when studying patients with severe brain damage because these individuals often cannot communicate their wishes or give consent due to their condition. Informed consent is a foundational principle in medical and psychological research, as it ensures that participants have the opportunity to understand the nature of the study and voluntarily agree to participate. In cases of severe brain damage, the ability to comprehend information, weigh options, and make an autonomous decision may be compromised. Researchers must consider how to ethically include these individuals in studies while respecting their autonomy and rights. This often involves complex ethical considerations regarding guardianship, surrogate decision-makers, or the use of advance directives made prior to the patient’s incapacitation. The other options relate to logistical or procedural challenges rather than ethical considerations associated with patient consent.