A Training Program for Improving the Informed Consent Discussion Between Clinical Researchers and Their Subjects

Abstract

Although there are many training programs on informed consent, they seldom model the contextual factors that support the vital elements of communication, including presentation style, body language, providing a comfortable environment, utilizing clear language, and establishing overall rapport with the subject. A team of clinicians at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) created a pilot program that consists of a video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l26hdCD9g2I) and didactic presentation to train investigators to conduct informed consent discussions. Thirty-four physicians and eighty nurses were tested on the training content including these contextual factors. Both groups showed an increase in content knowledge after the training. An informed consent training program such as this is feasible and may improve both the knowledge and communication skills necessary for this important process.