What potential outcomes can the IRB decide on a research protocol?

The correct answer encompasses the various potential outcomes the Institutional Review Board (IRB) can determine for a research protocol. The IRB plays a crucial role in the oversight of research involving human subjects to ensure their rights and welfare are protected.

When the IRB reviews a research protocol, it can make several decisions based on ethical considerations, participant safety, and regulatory compliance. Approving a protocol implies that the IRB finds the study ethically acceptable and that it meets all necessary guidelines and requirements for conducting research with human participants. Conversely, disapproving a protocol indicates the IRB has identified significant concerns that need to be addressed before the research can proceed. Additionally, the IRB may request changes to certain aspects of the study to enhance participant protection or address ethical issues identified during the review process. These changes could involve modifications in the study design, informed consent process, or other relevant elements.

Thus, given that the IRB can take any of these actions—approving the study, disapproving it, or requesting revisions for improvement—the comprehensive nature of the options reflects the IRB's multifaceted role in research oversight and ethical governance.