Protocol audits for post-approval monitoring of animal use protocols.

Monitoring of animal use protocols following IACUC approval is a way to ensure regulatory compliance and to improve communication between the IACUC and investigators. The authors describe the protocol audit system used by the University of California, San Diego's Animal Welfare Program to ensure that IACUC-approved protocols are followed. This program, as well as the protocol audit form they provide, can be used by institutions to initiate, enhance, or evaluate post-approval monitoring programs.