Use of Human Subjects in Research  

Case Study  

Blood Samples 

Choice D.

You tell her not to send the samples because you are not permitted to analyze them unless you first prepare a research protocol and get IRB approval for it. The process is too cumbersome and complicated to bother with.

If the samples have personal identifiers and you or your colleague intend to (or may) contact subjects depending on the results of the research, you do need IRB review and approval before you begin.

However, based solely on the information given initially by your colleague, you cannot decide whether or not this research needs REGULAR IRB review and approval. To make a determination you need more information. Therefore, the best answer is B (ask for more information about the samples).

This case study continues with a closer look at option "B."