Which practice most effectively protects participant confidentiality in research?

• A. Sharing identifiable data with all stakeholders.
• B. Storing data with restricted access and coded identifiers.
• C. Posting identified data in public report.
• D. Using only paper records without secure storage.

Answer: (B)

Protecting participant confidentiality hinges on separating identifying information from study data and limiting access to the data. Using coded identifiers means the dataset uses a code instead of names or direct identifiers, and a secure key links the code to the person. Storing this information with restricted access ensures only authorized individuals can view it, often with password protection, encryption, and secure storage. This combination minimizes the risk of inadvertent disclosure and keeps the linkage to identities protected from unauthorized eyes.

Sharing identifiable data with all stakeholders risks exposing identities. Posting identified data in a public report makes the information accessible to anyone, defeating confidentiality. Relying on paper records without secure storage also leaves data vulnerable to loss, theft, or misuse. The best practice is the one that combines de-identification with strict access controls.