What action should be taken if an IACUC member has a direct financial interest in a protocol?

If an IACUC member has a direct financial interest in a protocol, the appropriate action is to remove themselves entirely from protocol discussions. This approach is vital for maintaining the integrity of the review process and ensuring that all decisions are made without any conflict of interest.

When a member with a financial stake in a study participates in discussions or decision-making, it could undermine the perceived and actual impartiality of the IACUC. By stepping away from discussions and votes, the member helps to protect the objectivity of the IACUC's evaluations, aligning with ethical standards and federal guidelines that prioritize animal welfare and unbiased oversight.

The integrity of the IACUC is essential, and having members abstain from participating in any manner regarding protocols they have a stake in is fundamental to upholding ethical standards in research. This practice ensures that the decision-making process remains fair and is based solely on the welfare of the animals and adherence to compliance standards.