• The purpose of the IEC is to promote a pluralistic and democratic exchange of ethical values and concerns, and to critically evaluate them in order to identify opportunities for enhancing the ethical integrity of the institution.
• The mandate of IEC, SMVNC essentially targets ethical aspects of research and education.

The terms of reference for the IEC are as follows:

1. To ensure that all proposed research projects adhere to established national and international ethical guidelines, while safeguarding the dignity, rights, and well-being of research participants.
2. To initiate and commission research studies on ethical aspects of practice in SMVNC.
3. Continuing education in research bioethics and ethical aspects of clinical practice by seminars, workshops and interactive discussions for all categories of staff members including nursing and paramedical staff.
4. To promote continuing education in research bioethics and the ethical dimensions of clinical practice through seminars, workshops, and interactive discussions for all staff members.
5. The Ethics committee endeavours to produce guidance on a broad range of topics.
6. Assessments of risk benefit ratio, informed consent process etc. are some examples.
7. The committee does not address or interfere in matters of an administrative nature, nor does the committee function as a grievance cell for staff members.

The IEC screens the research proposals for their completeness and depending on the risk involved categorize them into 3 types:

1. Exemption from review for proposals that involve less than minimal risk.
2. Expedited review for more than minimal risk proposals, minor protocol amendments, research on disaster management.
3. Full review for more than minimal risk and proposals that involve vulnerable subjects.

IEC has responsibility within the institution with the following objectives:

• To ensure the competent review and evaluation of all ethical aspects of research projects received, to ensure compliance with the appropriate laws and safeguard welfare of subjects.
• Clinical ethics consultation.
• Education of professional, administrative, and support staff about ethical issues.
• Creation, developing revising and implementing ethical guidelines (SOPs).
• Initiate studies in ethics.
• Continuing education and training programs to ensure that IEC members are qualified to perform their specific duties.

1. Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Memberships Requirments of the Ethics Committee
2. The terms and reference of the Sri Manakula Vinayagar Nursing College Ethics Committee (SMVNC -EC)
3. The conditions of appointment and the quorum required for the Sri Manakula VInayagar Nursing College Ethics Committee
4. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Resignation, Replacement or Removal of Members
5. Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Sri Manakula Vinayagar Nursing College Ethics Committee
6. Preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to be followed by the Committee for Vulnerable Population
7. Standard Operating Procedures for Policy on Training on New and Existing Committee Members
8. Standard Operating Procedures for Policy to monitor or prevent the conflict of Interest