Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) Practice Exam

For a root cause analysis to be credible, which factor is essential?

1. A single, clearly defined root cause has been identified.

2. It is reviewed and approved by a patient safety professional.

3. Participation by leadership and involved individuals is ensured.

4. Corrective actions have been developed and implemented.

The correct answer is: Participation by leadership and involved individuals is ensured.

For a root cause analysis to be credible, the involvement of leadership and individuals directly associated with the incident is essential. This participation ensures that the analysis is comprehensive, drawing on the insights and perspectives of those who have firsthand experience with the processes involved. Engaging these stakeholders fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, enhancing the likelihood that the findings will be accepted and acted upon. In addition to credibility, this collaboration also helps to ensure that any underlying systemic issues are identified and that solutions developed are practical and viable within the context of the organization's environment. When leaders are involved, they can allocate resources for follow-up actions and advocate for necessary changes, reinforcing the analysis' impact on patient safety improvements.