Chapter 2 Professional Ethics 37 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Institutions that receive federal support are required to provide a written assurance to the Office for Human Research Protections that describes how the institution will protect the rights and welfare of human subjects. These assurances also include an agreement to follow the Common Rule. In 1991, many federal agencies adopted Subpart A of 45 CFR Part 46, at which time the term “Common Rule” came into use. HHS adopted requirements to provide additional protections for fetuses, neo- nates, pregnant women, prisoners, and children. The three sets of regu- lations are the Common Rule, FDA, and VA. These regulations outline the authority and responsibilities of IRBs. The Common Rule has the most detail. Special or additional requirements are outlined in the VA regulations. Common Rule the common name for 45 CFR Part 46, Subpart A, which outlines the authority of IRBs and helps protect fetuses, neonates, and pregnant women, prisoners, and children involved in research studies Bioethicists are concerned with the ethical questions that stem from the collaboration of areas such as life sciences, biotechnology, medicine, politics, law, and philosophy. An understanding of bioethics can be useful when reflecting upon the implications and outcomes of medical procedures, treatment decisions, biomedical and behavioral research, and health policies. Bioethicists work in a variety of settings, such as healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, and skilled nursing facilities), pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, academic centers, research and compliance boards, and policy organizations. Bioethicists may consider and advise organizations and individuals on critical social and individual concerns such as informed consent, cultural diversity, and emerging reproductive technologies. Use the Internet to search for information on academic programs and jobs in bioethics. What types of courses are included in these programs? What are the job requirements? Career Corner Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com