Questions to ask
It is encouraged that all parents/guardians of participants in clinical trials make an informed decision when it comes to enrolling in a clinical trial. Therefore, it is important to ask as many questions as necessary before providing informed consent.
You can discuss your questions with a researcher or health professional. When planning to discuss participation, please consider:
- Taking a family member or friend along for support in asking questions
- Plan your questions ahead of time by writing them down
- Be prepared to write down answers to your questions
- Be open minded to advice you may receive
About the trial
- What is the aim of this trial?
- How will this trial help?
- Is this trial testing something new? If so, why is this trial different?
- Will the trial use a placebo? What does that mean?
- How long will the trial go for?
- Will I be paid to participate in this trial?
- Will my expenses be paid for?
- Who is funding this trial?
About participation
- How will this trial affect my daily life?
- Will I need to take time off work/school?
- How long do my hospital visits take?
- What sort of tests are involved?
- Do I need to complete questionnaires or keep a diary?
- Do I need to change any medications/treatments I am taking?
- What would happen if I decide to leave the trial before it ends?
- Who will I contact about my care? When are they available?
About the risks
- What are the risks in participating in this trial?
- What are the side effects I could expect from this trial?
- What happens if I am experiencing side effects?
- If there are complications that arise from the trial, who is responsible for paying for the costs associated with them?
After the trial
- How does a trial end?
- Is there any follow-up care available after the trial?
- How do I find out the results of the trial? When will that be?
- If the trial works, can I continue taking the treatment/therapy even after the trial has ended?