Abstract
Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a process for identifying the causes underlying deviations, adverse events, serious safety events and sentinel events. All healthcare organizations conduct some level of Root Cause Analysis after an adverse event has occurred. There are varying models, tools and techniques that can be used for a Root Cause Analysis.
My organization has identified that we have an opportunity to update our policies, procedures and practices in order to create a more robust process for reviewing patient safety events. Improving the Root Cause Analysis process will allow us to flush out the underlying causes of an event and develop solutions that will prevent future harm, problems or other defects. Conducting a more thorough root cause analysis will ensure we continue to offer the best care possible to our patients, families and staff.
