The Use of Electronic Consent for COVID-19 Clinical Trials: Lessons for Emergency Care Research During a Pandemic and Beyond.

Abstract

The novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus poses many unique challenges to the implementation of clinical research, particularly as it relates to the processes of informed consent. Traditional methods of in-person informed consent were no longer plausible, as face-to-face discussions may expose researchers and patients to increased risk of contracting and spreading the virus. In many circumstances the research personnel obtaining consent were considered non-essential workers, and thus did not have priority for personal protective equipment in light of national shortages.