What is discrete data?

Discrete data refers to information that can only take on specific, separate values, often countable in nature. This type of data is characterized by distinct, separate values, often representing whole numbers. For example, when counting the number of patients in a healthcare facility, you are dealing with discrete data since you can count them as individual whole units (1, 2, 3, etc.) and there can be no fractional part of a patient.

In contrast, other options describe different types of data or presentations. Continuous data, for instance, can take any value within a given range and is measured, not counted, such as blood pressure readings. Data displayed in graphs can represent various types of information, not specific to discrete data. Lastly, statistical data collected over time does not inherently categorize the data as discrete; it could also include continuous data collected at different intervals. Thus, the countable nature of discrete data, as exemplified in the context of patient counts, makes this answer accurate.