In order to advance medical knowledge and thus improve patient care, intensive care services can participate in clinical research studies. These studies are conducted within rigorous safety and confidentiality frameworks, in accordance with national and European regulations.
When a patient meets the criteria for inclusion in a research protocol, the department's caregivers give a detailed presentation of the protocol and its implications, and offer to participate. If the patient is unable to make this decision for him/herself, it is up to his/her trusted support person If the patient is unable to make this decision for him/herself, the study is presented and proposed to the patient's trusted support person, or to the patient's next-of-kin in the absence of a trusted support person designated by the patient.
A written information note is provided, and the care team remains at the disposal of the patient, his or her trusted support person or relative for any further information. Participation is always voluntary, and the patient may express his or her opposition to participation at any time, without having to justify it. Refusal to take part in research, whether expressed at the outset or at a later date, will not prejudice the quality of care or the relationship.
Clinical studies enable us to advance our knowledge of diseases, and improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment strategies. By taking part in this type of study, we work together to advance research for the benefit of other patients as well as the patient himself, who can potentiallybenefit from innovative treatments when this is the aim of the protocol. In all cases, whether or not a patient takes part in a study, our healthcare teams do their utmost to offer their patients the best possible quality of care.