A Cause-and-Effect Diagram is a tool that helps identify, sort, and display possible causes of a specific problem or quality characteristic (Viewgraph 1). It graphically illustrates the relationship between a given outcome and all the factors that influence the outcome.

The survey method is the most common method of correlational research; especially in fields like psychology. It involves random sampling of the variables or the subjects in the research in which the participants fill a questionnaire centered on the subjects of interest.

There are four steps to using the tool.

1. Identify the problem.
2. Work out the major factors involved.
3. Identify possible causes.
4. Analyze your diagram.

AND Bones of the fish. most often used with a Cause and Effect Diagram during problem solving analysis? Performing root cause analysis.

three different types

How to conduct Root Cause Analysis?

1. Define the problem. Ensure you identify the problem and align with a customer need.
2. Collect data relating to the problem.
3. Identify what is causing the problem.
4. Prioritise the causes.
5. Identify solutions to the underlying problem and implement the change.
6. Monitor and sustain.

Cause analysis tools are helpful tools for conducting a root cause analysis for a problem or situation. They include: Fishbone diagram: Identifies many possible causes for an effect or problem and sorts ideas into useful categories. Pareto chart: Shows on a bar graph which factors are more significant.

2. What should you do if you determine the root cause and find that it is out of your control?

1. Quit.
2. Use a different analysis tool.
3. Nothing. Once you determine the root cause, your work is done whether it is in your control or not.
4. Go back up to the previous question and see if you have control over that response.

Root Cause Analysis is a useful process for understanding and solving a problem. Figure out what negative events are occurring. Then, look at the complex systems around those problems, and identify key points of failure. Finally, determine solutions to address those key points, or root causes.

Team members should consist of physicians, supervisors, ancillary staff and quality improvement experts. It is important that members of the RCA team are not involved in the case being reviewed to ensure objectivity [10, 11].

Root cause analysis (RCA) is the process of discovering the root causes of problems in order to identify appropriate solutions. RCA assumes that it is much more effective to systematically prevent and solve for underlying issues rather than just treating ad hoc symptoms and putting out fires.