True or False: Root cause analysis is a proactive activity performed after an incident has occurred.

Root cause analysis is indeed a proactive activity performed after an incident has occurred. This method is employed to identify the underlying causes of a problem or an adverse event by examining the circumstances surrounding the incident. The primary goal is to understand not just what happened, but why it happened, in order to implement changes that will prevent recurrence.

Performing root cause analysis after an incident allows organizations to learn from their mistakes and improve their processes, policies, and systems. This reflective practice is crucial in the healthcare environment, where understanding the cause of an error can lead to significant improvements in patient safety and quality of care. Thus, determining root causes is essential for fostering a culture of continuous improvement and compliance within healthcare organizations.

Options that suggest a different understanding of root cause analysis either misinterpret its purpose or the timing of its implementation in relation to incidents.