RCA Data Collection and Analysis Flashcards

Why is 'sampling strategy' important during RCA data collection?

Answer: To ensure collected data is representative of the full population and not biased

A proper sampling strategy ensures that collected data accurately represents the broader population, preventing biased conclusions based on unrepresentative samples.

In RCA, what is 'physical evidence' and why is it prioritized over witness accounts?

Answer: Tangible objects or conditions at the failure site; it is objective and cannot change its account

Physical evidence is objective and unchanging, whereas witness accounts can be influenced by memory bias, stress, or the desire to protect themselves or others.

What is the risk of relying solely on anecdotal data during an RCA investigation?

Answer: Anecdotes may not be representative and can introduce personal bias into the analysis

Anecdotal data from individuals may reflect isolated experiences rather than the true systemic pattern, leading to incorrect cause identification.

In RCA, what does 'correlation vs. causation' mean when analyzing data?

Answer: Correlation means two variables move together, but does not prove one causes the other

Two variables that correlate may share a common cause or be coincidentally related; RCA must verify that a causal mechanism exists, not just a statistical relationship.

What does a 'gap analysis' in RCA compare?

Answer: Actual performance against expected or required performance standards

Gap analysis identifies the difference between how a process is actually performing and how it is supposed to perform, highlighting areas for RCA focus.

In RCA, why is it important to preserve the 'chain of custody' for physical evidence?

Answer: To ensure evidence integrity and credibility, especially in regulatory or legal investigations

Chain of custody documentation proves that physical evidence has not been tampered with or contaminated, maintaining its integrity for analysis and potential legal proceedings.