Summary

In order to improve the care of patients admitted to hospital emergency departments, research is needed for the continuing development of evidence-based treatments. However, it can be challenging to obtain informed consent for research in an emergency setting for a variety of reasons. This study explores the views of research practitioners around consent in an emergency setting.

The project involves undertaking a qualitative study investigating informed consent in the emergency setting using focus groups with staff. The findings of this project will help inform the development of a three-year study that will fully explore the views of patients, families and research practitioners. Having a greater understanding of public views on consent in emergency settings will help inform the development of future studies in emergency settings.

Researcher: Imogen Skene, University College London,

Supervisor: Dr Sophie Park, University College London

Start date & duration: 31 March 2017, one year

Partners and collaborators involved: University College London, Barts Health NHS Trust, Health Education English working across North Central and East London.