Which of the following describes recommended characteristics of an IRB/IEC?

• A. At least five members; at least one nonscientific member; at least one independent member; only independent members may vote on trial-related matters; a list of members and qualifications should be maintained
• B. At least five members, all scientists, with no nonscientific member
• C. A small committee of three members
• D. Five members, none independent

Answer: (A)

The important idea here is that an IRB/IEC must be composed to provide diverse, independent oversight for human subjects research. It should have enough members (at least five) with varied backgrounds, including a member whose primary concerns are not scientific, and at least one member who is not affiliated with the institution conducting the study. The board’s composition and each member’s qualifications should be documented and kept up to date. This ensures broader perspectives, minimizes conflicts of interest, and supports ongoing, proper review of protocols.

This option fits those requirements: it specifies the minimum size, includes a nonscientific member, requires an independent member, and calls for maintaining a current list of members and qualifications. The other options fall short in one or more ways—lacking diversity (all scientists), being too small, or excluding independent members—so they don’t align with the established guidance for IRB/IEC composition.