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Paediatric research assent and consent — MRCPCH TAS MCQ

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ModerateEthics, law and research governancePaediatric research assent and consentMRCPCH TAS

A 10-year-old is invited into a low-risk observational asthma study. His parents agree, but he appears distressed and says he does not want extra questionnaires. What is the most appropriate ethical principle?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Seek parental consent and respect the child's dissent where possible

Paediatric research usually requires valid parental consent and age-appropriate child assent, with meaningful attention to dissent. Treating research procedures as clinical care would blur the distinction between care and research. The pearl is that assent is not a token process; it reflects respect for the developing autonomy of the child.

Reference: RCPCH Theory examination syllabi; UK Health Research Authority ethics guidance; GMC 0-18 years guidance