Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Practice Exam

How many times should one ask "why" in root cause analysis to reach the root cause?

1. 3 times

2. 5 times

3. 10 times

4. 7 times

The correct answer is: 5 times

In root cause analysis, the practice of asking "why" multiple times is a technique aimed at drilling down to the underlying cause of a problem. The concept is often framed within the context of the "5 Whys" methodology, which suggests that asking "why" five times is typically sufficient to peel back the layers of symptoms and identify the fundamental issue. By asking "why" repeatedly, the analysis aims to avoid treating superficial symptoms and instead focus on deeper systemic issues. Each response reveals more detail about the conditions leading to the problem, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the cause. While variations exist in practice where some may advocate for asking "why" fewer or more times based on the complexity of the issue, the commonly accepted framework is that five iterations are generally adequate to uncover the root cause effectively for many situations. This approach helps to ensure that actions taken for improvement are directed at addressing the real source of the problem rather than just its manifestations.