The process of tracking events leading to errors to identify faulty systems and processes is known as?

• A. Root Cause Analysis
• B. Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
• C. Risk Assessment
• D. Audit Trail Review

Answer: (A)

Root Cause Analysis is used to trace back from an error to its underlying causes in a system or process. It goes beyond the surface incident to identify the fundamental factors that allowed the error to occur, often by mapping the sequence of events and distinguishing root causes from contributing factors. Tools like the 5 Whys or fishbone diagrams help move from symptoms to the true cause. The aim is to implement corrective actions that address the systemic issue and prevent recurrence, then monitor to ensure improvement. This differs from approaches like failure mode and effects analysis, which is proactive and focuses on potential failures before they happen; risk assessment, which evaluates overall risk exposure; and audit trail review, which collects and examines records to understand what happened but does not by itself identify the root cause.