This question is identical to Question 95, indicating a potential duplication in the document. The analysis remains the same: a significant medication error causing harm requires a reactive investigation to identify causes and prevent recurrence.
Option A (Multiple regression analysis): Inappropriate for analyzing specific incidents, as it is a statistical tool for relationships.
Option B (Variation analysis): Not suitable for investigating a single harmful event, as it focuses on process variability.
Option C (Root cause analysis): Correct answer. The NAHQ CPHQ study guide reiterates, “RCA is the standard approach for analyzing serious safety events like medication errors with harm, using a multidisciplinary team to identify root causes” (Domain 1).
Option D (Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)): FMEA is proactive, not for post-incident analysis.
CPHQ Objective Reference: Domain 1: Patient Safety, Objective 1.5, “Conduct root cause analysis for significant safety events.” The NAHQ study guide emphasizes, “RCA ensures thorough investigation of harmful errors to improve safety” (Domain 1).
Rationale: RCA is the correct tool for a harmful medication error, consistent with CPHQ’s safety investigation principles.
[Reference: NAHQ CPHQ Study Guide, Domain 1: Patient Safety, Objective 1.5., , , , ]