Case example for Security and storage
Definition : Research information should always be stored in a secure location. Here is an example illustrating the importance of proper storage of research information:
In a needs assessment study on helping a clinic reach individuals without health insurance, the study forms included sensitive health information along with the person’s name and phone number. Before returning to the research office, the staff member left the information at home on her kitchen counter. That night, some of her friends came over for dinner, saw through the papers, and recognized the names of some of the individuals in the study
Discussion questions
1. What is the harm of her friends seeing this research information?
2. How could this type of situation be avoided?
3. How does this type of situation affect the integrity of the study? How does this type of situation affect the participants?
4. Why is it important to securely store research information?