Root cause analysis aims to identify which of the following types of causes?

Root cause analysis (RCA) is a systematic process used to identify the underlying reasons for problems or adverse events. The goal of RCA is not only to address the immediate or superficial causes of an issue but to discover the deeper, more fundamental causes that contribute to recurring problems.

By focusing on both proximal and root causes, RCA provides a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Proximal causes are often more directly observable and can relate to specific actions or failures, while root causes are the deeper, systemic issues that, if addressed, can prevent similar problems from happening again in the future. This dual focus ensures that solutions are not merely temporary fixes but are instead effective at preventing the recurrence of the issue by addressing its actual source.

In contrast, an approach that only targets immediate or superficial causes would likely lead to recurring issues, as it fails to tackle the fundamental reasons why the problem occurred. An exclusive focus on systemic causes would also miss the important nuances present in individual events that contribute to the overall failure. Therefore, the choice to emphasize both proximal and root causes aligns perfectly with the core objectives of root cause analysis in quality improvement and management practices.