What software is primarily used to retrieve, update, and edit data in a relational database?

The correct answer is that Data Manipulation Language (DML) is primarily used to retrieve, update, and edit data in a relational database. DML is a language used for managing data within a database. It includes the operations required to manipulate data stored within relational databases, such as inserting new records, updating existing records, and deleting records. In addition, DML allows users to query the database to retrieve specific data, making it essential for interacting effectively with the data stored in a relational database.

This functionality is crucial for various applications in healthcare information systems, where accessing and modifying patient records or clinical data is necessary for decision-making and management.

In contrast, Data Control Language (DCL) is focused on permissions and access control, Data Definition Language (DDL) deals with the structures of the database, such as creating and altering tables, and Database Management System (DBMS) refers to the software that manages the database itself, providing a range of functionalities beyond just manipulating data. While all these components play important roles in a database ecosystem, DML is specifically tailored for the direct manipulation of the data, making it the most appropriate choice for the question asked.