Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) Practice Exam

What key element should be considered by a team reviewing a serious harm event before concluding provider accountability?

1. The contribution of systems factors on the individual's behavior

2. The individual's most recent performance review

3. How many years the individual has been practicing

4. Whether the individual filed a claim with risk management

The correct answer is: The contribution of systems factors on the individual's behavior

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader context in which an event occurred. Considering the contribution of systems factors on the individual's behavior is crucial because it enables the team to analyze how organizational processes, communication breakdowns, and environmental conditions may have influenced the actions of the provider. This perspective allows for a more holistic understanding of the serious harm event, which is essential in identifying root causes and improving safety systems. When evaluating provider accountability, solely focusing on individual attributes, such as their performance reviews or years of experience, may overlook systemic issues that significantly contribute to adverse events. For instance, if the management structures, work processes, or team dynamics are flawed, they can lead to errors, regardless of the provider's experience or historical performance. Therefore, looking at both individual actions and system-level factors offers a more balanced view and helps ensure that any accountability conclusions are just and constructive. Contextual elements like how long someone has been practicing or whether they filed a claim with risk management do not provide the necessary insight into the systemic influences that could have shaped their behavior in a high-stakes situation.