What role does monitoring play during a clinical trial?

Monitoring during a clinical trial serves a crucial function in ensuring compliance with the established trial protocol and relevant regulations. This adherence is vital because it guarantees that the trial is conducted consistently and ethically, following the approved study design. By closely overseeing the trial’s progression, monitors can identify any deviations from the protocol, which could affect the integrity of the data and the safety of participants.

Moreover, effective monitoring helps to safeguard participant welfare by ensuring that the trial is conducted according to safety and ethical standards, addressing any issues that may arise in real-time. This oversight is essential for maintaining the validity of the trial results and ensuring that they can be relied upon when making conclusions about the efficacy and safety of the intervention being studied.