Source data should be all of the following except?

Source data in clinical research refers to information that is collected directly from the study subjects or generated through the study processes. For source data to be reliable and useful in the context of clinical research, it must adhere to specific standards.

One of the key characteristics of source data is that it must be attributable, meaning it should be clear who collected or generated the data. This helps ensure accountability and transparency in the research process.

Source data also needs to be legible, contemporaneous, and original. This means that the records must be recorded in real-time and be in their native format, ensuring they accurately reflect the information at the time it was collected. This is critical for ensuring data integrity and reliability.

Data should also be accurate and complete, encompassing all relevant information necessary to ensure that the findings of the study are valid and replicable.

In contrast, the notion of being "obscured" stands out as an inappropriate characteristic for source data. Obscured data would imply that the information is hidden or unclear, which would compromise its utility and integrity in research. Therefore, the exclusion of obscured data highlights the importance of clarity and transparency in source data, pivotal for maintaining the quality and trustworthiness of clinical research.