What is meant by ongoing consent in TCPS 2 research?

• A. Reaffirmation of consent when new information arises or when the research extends beyond the original consent scope.
• B. One-time consent at the start; no further consent.
• C. Consent is optional after initial consent.
• D. Ongoing consent is only for medical trials.

Answer: (A)

Ongoing consent means reaffirming a participant’s agreement whenever new information emerges or the research moves beyond the scope of what was originally agreed to. In TCPS 2, respect for persons requires that consent is not a one-time event but a continuing process. If there are new risks, new findings, or changes to how data will be collected or used, researchers should inform participants and obtain their renewed consent if they would reasonably reassess their willingness to participate. This keeps participation voluntary and aligned with the participant’s updated preferences.

This approach contrasts with one-time consent, which assumes no further discussion is needed after the initial agreement. Ongoing consent is not optional after initial consent, and it applies to all types of research involving people, not only medical trials. It also accommodates participants’ right to withdraw at any time.