diff --git a/SOPs/LAB/SOP-LAB-001-calming-distressed-toddler-eye-tracking.md b/SOPs/LAB/SOP-LAB-001-calming-distressed-toddler-eye-tracking.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f175257 --- /dev/null +++ b/SOPs/LAB/SOP-LAB-001-calming-distressed-toddler-eye-tracking.md @@ -0,0 +1,100 @@ +```yaml +--- +title: "Procedure for Calming a Distressed Toddler During Eye-Tracking Assessments" +author: "" +date: 2026-01-02 +version: "1.0" +status: "Draft" +--- +``` + +## 1. Purpose +This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) defines a standardized, ethical, and child-centered approach for calming a distressed toddler during eye-tracking assessments conducted at PNRL. The purpose is to ensure participant safety, data integrity, and compliance with Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements. + +## 2. Scope +This SOP applies to all eye-tracking assessment sessions involving toddlers conducted by PNRL research staff. It is intended for use before, during, and immediately after assessment activities when a toddler shows signs of distress. + +## 3. Audience +- Research Assistants +- Study Coordinators +- Principal Investigator (oversight) + +## 4. Regulatory and Ethical Compliance +This SOP is designed to comply with: +- Institutional Review Board (IRB)–approved study protocols +- Ethical principles for research involving children +- ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems (documentation and process control) +- ISO 13485 principles where applicable to research devices +- FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (where electronic records or signatures are used) + +## 5. Definitions +| Term | Definition | +|------|------------| +| Toddler | A child typically aged 12–36 months | +| Distress | Observable signs of discomfort, fear, crying, refusal, or agitation | +| Eye-Tracking Assessment | A non-invasive procedure measuring visual attention using eye-tracking equipment | + +## 6. Roles and Responsibilities +| Role | Responsibility | +|-----|----------------| +| Research Assistant | Implement calming procedures, monitor child welfare, document events | +| Study Coordinator | Ensure staff training and SOP adherence | +| Principal Investigator | Ensure IRB compliance and approve deviations | + +## 7. Procedure +*Follow the steps sequentially. Progress to the next step only if the toddler remains distressed.* + +### Step 1: Pause the Assessment +- Immediately stop the eye-tracking task. +- Lower or turn away visual stimuli and dim screens if applicable. +- *Ensure the toddler is not restrained and has freedom of movement.* + +### Step 2: Assess the Source of Distress +- Observe verbal and non-verbal cues (crying, pushing away equipment). +- Ask the caregiver about possible causes (fatigue, hunger, fear). +- *Document observations after the session.* + +### Step 3: Provide Comfort and Familiarization +- Allow the caregiver to hold or comfort the toddler. +- Use a calm voice and neutral facial expressions. +- Introduce familiar or approved comfort items if allowed by IRB protocol. + +### Step 4: Offer a Brief Break or Distraction +- Provide a short break away from the equipment. +- Use age-appropriate, IRB-approved toys or songs. +- *Do not coerce or pressure the toddler to continue.* + +### Step 5: Decide to Resume or Terminate the Session +- Resume only if the toddler appears calm and willing. +- If distress persists, terminate the session respectfully. +- Thank the caregiver and toddler for participation. + +## 8. Documentation Requirements +- Record occurrence of distress in the study log. +- Note actions taken and outcome. +- Ensure records are stored in accordance with IRB and data protection requirements. + +## 9. Training Requirements +- All research assistants must be trained on this SOP prior to conducting assessments. +- Training completion must be documented. + +## 10. Deviations +- Any deviation from this SOP must be documented and reported to the Study Coordinator. +- Significant deviations may require IRB notification per protocol. + +## 11. References +- IRB-approved study protocol "" +- Ethical Principles for Research with Human Subjects +- ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems +- FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (if applicable) + +## 12. Version Control +| Version | Date | Description of Change | Author | +|--------|------|----------------------|--------| +| 1.0 | 2026-01-02 | Initial draft | "" | + +## 13. Approval Signatures +| Name | Role | Signature | Date | +|-----|------|-----------|------| +| "" | Principal Investigator | "" | "" | +| "" | Quality/Compliance | "" | "" | \ No newline at end of file