What are the key elements of informed consent?

The key elements of informed consent include providing adequate information about the research, ensuring comprehension of that information, emphasizing the voluntariness of participation, and obtaining explicit consent from the participant.

Having clear information means participants understand what the research involves, any risks, and potential benefits. Comprehension is crucial, as participants must fully grasp the information presented to them to make an informed decision. Voluntariness ensures that participation is a free choice, without coercion or undue influence. Finally, consent signifies that participants actively agree to take part in the study based on the information provided.

The other options do not fully capture the essence of informed consent. For instance, terms in those choices may refer to important aspects of research ethics, but they either do not reflect the established components recognized in ethical guidelines or combine elements that do not align with the standard practice in research involving human subjects.