Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a computer data edit in cancer registries?

1. To enhance data storage

2. To verify data accuracy

3. To collect new data

4. To analyze treatment outcomes

The correct answer is: To verify data accuracy

The primary purpose of a computer data edit in cancer registries is to verify data accuracy. Data edits are automated processes that help ensure the integrity of the data collected within the registry. They check for consistency, completeness, and validity of the information entered. By identifying discrepancies or errors, such as missing data fields or values that don't conform to expected parameters, these edits serve a critical role in maintaining a high standard of data quality. Accurate data is imperative in cancer registries, as it impacts everything from patient care to research outcomes. When data is accurate, it allows for more reliable reporting, analysis, and ultimately contributes to better cancer control measures. This emphasis on verification aligns with the overall goal of cancer registries to provide high-quality, dependable information to inform treatment options and public health initiatives. While enhancing data storage, collecting new data, and analyzing treatment outcomes are relevant activities in the realm of cancer registries, they are not the primary focus of computer data edits. Instead, the central role of these edits is to ensure that the foundational data within the registry is accurate and reliable.