At the Brigham and Women's Hospital, as at many major teaching hospitals, research is conducted to further the progress of medical and nursing care. All research projects in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) have a goal: better understanding of the special needs of babies in the NICU and improvement of their care in the future. During your baby's stay in the NICU, you and your baby may be eligible to participate in one or more research studies.
Taking part in a research project is your decision. You may be approached by a researcher for your consent to participate with your baby in a project. You should fully understand the purpose of any project before giving consent. Feel free to discuss any questions you may have with the person representing the study. These people are the best sources of information. You may also discuss any research project with the attending physician caring for your baby.
All studies taking place in the NICU have the approval of the doctors and nurses caring for your baby and meet the highest standards of scientific and clinical excellence. Any study you or your baby may be eligible for will be discussed with your baby's primary team.
Your infant's best care is always the top priority. If you decide not to participate in a research project it will not affect the care your baby receives. If you have any questions or concerns that have not been answered to your satisfaction, you might find it helpful to contact the Executive Secretary of the Human Research Committee at (617) 732-5740.
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