Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) Practice Exam

What principle of high reliability focuses on investigating beyond surface-level explanations?

1. Resiliency.

2. Reluctance to accept simple explanations.

3. Deference to expertise.

4. Sensitivity to operations.

The correct answer is: Reluctance to accept simple explanations.

The principle of high reliability that emphasizes investigating beyond surface-level explanations is the reluctance to accept simple explanations. This principle directs practitioners to delve deeper into issues rather than settling for initial, superficial justifications for problems or failures. By encouraging a comprehensive analysis, this approach helps to uncover the more complex underlying causes of incidents or adverse events in patient safety, leading to more effective solutions and improved outcomes. This principle fosters a culture of inquiry where team members are trained to critically assess situations, recognizing that the initial explanation may not capture the full picture. The aim is to prevent complacency and promote thorough investigation, ensuring that all contributing factors are identified and addressed. This understanding is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it aligns with the need for continuous improvement and learning in safety practices. It underscores the importance of not only addressing immediate concerns but also understanding their broader implications to prevent recurrence. Other principles, while important in high-reliability organizations, focus on different aspects of safety and operational effectiveness. Resiliency, for instance, emphasizes the capacity to anticipate, adapt, and respond effectively to unexpected challenges. Deference to expertise involves recognizing and valuing the input of individuals with relevant knowledge in decision-making processes. Sensitivity to operations pertains to heightened awareness of the day-to-day