A team is conducting a failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) to determine whether a...

Per the NAHQ CPHQ exam blueprint, the first substantive step in FMEA is to clearly define and map the process. Developing a process flow diagram ensures that all team members share a common understanding of each step before identifying where failures might occur.

Option A is correct because failure modes can only be identified accurately once the process steps are fully understood.

Options B and D involve retrospective data and are not required for a proactive FMEA. Option C (RCA) is a reactive tool used after an adverse event, not before.

The CPHQ framework emphasizes FMEA as a proactive risk assessment method, beginning with process mapping.