Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of root cause analysis?

1. To assign blame for failures

2. To identify the source of a system failure

3. To enhance employee performance

4. To modify existing protocols

The correct answer is: To identify the source of a system failure

The purpose of root cause analysis is to identify the source of a system failure. This methodical approach focuses on uncovering the underlying issues that lead to problems or undesired outcomes within a process or system. By determining the root cause, organizations can develop targeted solutions that address these fundamental issues, preventing recurrence in the future. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement, aiming to enhance overall quality and efficiency rather than focusing on superficial fixes or assigning blame. While improving employee performance and modifying protocols can be part of the broader continuous quality improvement initiatives, these actions stem from understanding the root causes of failures rather than the primary goal of root cause analysis itself. Assigning blame does not contribute to learning from failures; instead, it can create a negative organizational culture that discourages open communication and problem-solving. Thus, the essence of root cause analysis lies in its aim to discover and rectify the true origins of issues within systems.