Which scenario would most clearly require continuing REB oversight beyond initial approval?

• A. The study has completed data collection.
• B. No changes to the protocol and no risk changes.
• C. There are ongoing participant interactions or modifications to the protocol.
• D. The study receives new funding.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that ongoing oversight by the REB is needed whenever the research continues to involve people or when the procedures themselves change. If participants are still being enrolled or contacted, or if the protocol is being updated in ways that affect risk, consent, or procedures, the study needs continuing review to ensure ethical safeguards stay appropriate. That is why the scenario with ongoing participant interactions or changes to the protocol clearly calls for continued REB oversight beyond the initial approval.

If data collection is finished and there are no changes to the protocol or risks, continuing oversight generally isn’t required, though considerations like long-term data storage or future use may still need separate approval in some cases. No changes to protocol or risk likewise doesn’t trigger ongoing review. New funding alone doesn’t automatically require continuing REB oversight unless it brings changes to the study design, procedures, or risk profile that would require another review.