Root Cause Analysis Flashcards
7 cards from real CQIA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Root Cause Analysis flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes the difference between corrective action and preventive action (CAPA)?
Answer: Corrective action fixes a current nonconformance; preventive action eliminates the risk of a potential nonconformance
Corrective action addresses an existing problem, while preventive action proactively eliminates potential problems before they occur.
A run chart shows a shift of eight consecutive data points all below the centerline. This pattern suggests:
Answer: A special cause that has shifted the process
Eight or more consecutive points on one side of the centerline is a standard signal of a special (assignable) cause in the process.
What is the role of a 'why-why diagram' in root cause analysis?
Answer: It visually maps the chain of causes and effects from the symptom to the root cause
A why-why (or why tree) diagram maps successive cause-and-effect relationships visually, showing the path from symptom to root cause.
In RCA, which approach helps confirm that a proposed root cause is genuine by temporarily removing and reintroducing the suspected cause?
Answer: Cause verification through controlled testing
Controlled testing — removing and reintroducing the suspected cause — confirms causality by showing that the effect disappears and returns accordingly.
An 'Is/Is Not' matrix is MOST useful for:
Answer: Narrowing down the possible causes by comparing where and when the problem occurs versus where it does not
The Is/Is Not matrix contrasts conditions where the problem exists with conditions where it does not, helping eliminate unlikely causes.
Which of the following is the LEAST effective root cause analysis outcome?
Answer: Retraining the operator who made the error without changing the process
Retraining an individual without changing the underlying process is the least effective fix because the error-prone conditions remain unchanged.
During an RCA facilitation, one team member dominates the discussion and others stay silent. The BEST facilitation technique to address this is:
Answer: Use structured brainstorming (e.g., round-robin) to ensure all voices are heard
Round-robin or nominal group technique ensures equal participation, preventing one voice from skewing the team's analysis.