Final answer:
An 'autonomous person' is someone who meets the eligibility criteria for a study, understands the risks and benefits, and can make a voluntary decision based on adequate information. Informed consent protects participant autonomy in clinical trials.
Step-by-step explanation:
An 'autonomous person' is someone who meets all eligibility criteria for a study understands the risks and benefits of their participation, and can make a voluntary decision if adequate information is provided. They are willing to accept certain risks if the research will benefit others in the future. This concept is based on the principle of autonomy, which states that individuals have the right to exercise agency or self-determination when making decisions about their health care.
In clinical trials, participant autonomy is protected through the informed consent process. Participants are provided with all relevant information about the trial, including potential risks and benefits, and are allowed to make their own decisions about whether to participate. Informed consent ensures that participants have a clear understanding of what to expect during the trial and guarantees that their involvement is voluntary.