Electronic consenting for conducting research remotely: A review of current practice and key recommendations for using e-consenting. (November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Skelton, Emily; Drey, Nicholas; Rutherford, Mary; Ayers, Susan; Malamateniou, Christina
• Is Part Of: International journal of medical informatics. Volume 143(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-11
• Subjects: Electronic consenting -- Informed consent -- Research ethics -- User experience; Medical informatics -- Periodicals; Information science -- Periodicals; Computers -- Periodicals; Medical technology -- Periodicals; Medical Informatics -- Periodicals; Technology, Medical -- Periodicals; Computers; Information science; Medical informatics; Medical technology; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 610.285
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2020.104271
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1386-5056

Abstract

Highlights: E-consent may support research to be conducted remotely. E-consent may enhance the consent process for participants and researchers. E-consent approaches could facilitate diversity in research participation. E-consent is a feasible alternative to traditional informed consent processes. Successful implementation is dependent on key practice and ethical considerations. Abstract: Background: Electronic approaches are becoming more widely used to obtain informed consent for research participation. Electronic consent (e-consent) provides an accessible and versatile approach to the consenting process, which can be enhanced with audio-visual and interactive features to improve participant engagement and comprehension of study procedures. Best practice guidance underpinned by ethical principles is required to ensure effective implementation of e-consent for use in research. Aim: To identify the key considerations for successful and ethical implementation of e-consent in the recruitment of participants to research projects which are conducted remotely. Methods: Electronic database searches of CINAHL, Medline, Embase, DARE, HTA, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, NHS Evidence, and hand-searches of reference lists were performed. Primary research studies of adult (≥ 18 years old) research participants using e-consent, published in English language, peer-reviewed journals between 2010−2020 were eligible for inclusion. Results: Of the initial 665 identified studies, 18 met the inclusion criteria: 6 cohort studies, 5 qualitative studies, 4 randomised control trials, 2 mixed-methods studies and one case-control study. Critical appraisal of included studies using Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tools suggested a low to moderate risk of bias in most studies (n = 15). Key practice recommendations for researchers using e-consent were identified around five primary themes: 1) accessibility and user-friendliness of e-consent, 2) user engagement and comprehension, 3) customisability to participant preferences and demographics, 4) data security and 5) impact on research teams. Conclusion: E-consenting approaches are generally well received by participants, with most studies reporting user-friendly interfaces and sufficient participant comprehension of consenting documentation. Implications for practice: E-consent may facilitate remotely-conducted research by offering a feasible and robust alternative to face-to-face consenting approaches, however paper-based options should still be offered, based on participant preference. Customising e-consenting platforms may improve accessibility for individuals with specific needs, and increase engagement with study information. Research teams must offer prospective participants opportunities to discuss study information in real-time.