How does ethical review contribute to participant protection in studies?

The role of ethical review in participant protection is primarily centered around the assessment of potential risks and benefits associated with research projects. This process is crucial because it involves a thorough evaluation of how the study is designed and implemented, ensuring that ethical standards are adhered to. By scrutinizing the research proposal, the ethical review board aims to minimize harm to participants and maximize the potential benefits derived from the research. This assessment is a fundamental part of the research ethics framework, fostering trust and safety for participants involved in studies.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the function of ethical reviews. Funding for research is a separate issue that is not addressed through the ethical review process. Collecting data from participants on their experiences happens post-study and is not a function of ethical review. Additionally, ethical reviews do not allow researchers to bypass informed consent; rather, they uphold the necessity of informed consent to ensure participants are fully aware of what their participation entails.