Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

The role of the Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) during a clinical trial is to assess trial progress and safety data. This independent group of experts closely monitors the ongoing trial to ensure participant safety, evaluate the efficacy of the treatment or intervention being studied, and determine whether the trial should continue as planned, be modified, or be halted. The DSMB reviews the accumulated clinical data regularly and makes recommendations based on their evaluations of safety and efficacy parameters.

By focusing on trial progress and safety, the DSMB helps ensure that the study adheres to ethical standards and that the welfare of participants is prioritized throughout the duration of the research. This monitoring is critical for maintaining the integrity of the trial and ensures any potential issues are addressed promptly. Other roles mentioned, such as administering trials or formulating new drugs, are not appropriate functions of the DSMB, as these are typically handled by the clinical trial sponsors and research teams. Similarly, the recruitment of volunteers is the responsibility of clinical research coordinators or investigators rather than the DSMB.