Final answer:
When data items in a database are inaccurate and inconsistent, this leads to a data integrity problem, affecting the reliability of database information and potentially impacting decision-making processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of databases, when data items are inaccurate and inconsistent with one another, this leads to a data integrity problem. Data integrity refers to the accuracy and consistency of data stored in a database. To ensure data integrity, various constraints and rules are applied such as primary keys, foreign keys, and check constraints. These enforce the data to adhere to certain standards, preventing duplication and maintaining the reliability of data relations. If data becomes corrupt or inconsistent, usually due to improper database design, human error, or failure to maintain database constraints, it can result in a lack of trust in the information that the database provides, and therefore could heavily impact decision-making processes based on that data.