Behavioral Science & Ethics USMLE Step 1 Practice Question
A 55-year-old man with hypertension (BP 168/96 mmHg, HR 82) enrolled in an antihypertensive medication trial develops erectile dysfunction after initiation of study drug. He becomes angry and verbally refuses further participation. Researchers insist he "must continue as contracted" despite his objections. Recent labs show adequate renal function (creatinine 0.9 mg/dL). He denies suicidal ideation. Which ethical principle is violated by the researchers' response to his withdrawal request?
Answer choices
- AFailure to obtain informed consent
- BLack of institutional review board approval
- CViolation of equipoise
- DInadequate compensation
- ELack of respect for voluntary withdrawalCorrect answer
- FFailure to report adverse drug reactions to the FDA
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