Root causes are specific reasons that contribute to medical errors. They cause mistakes that lead to great patient harm (adverse events). Usually they can be identified.

Examples:

• Using a wrong calculation factor
  
• Neglecting to use directions for complicated tests
  
• Reporting the wrong test result
  
• Using outdated reagents
  
• Testing clotted or partially-filled samples
• Diluting a test sample incorrectly

In most cases, management has the authority and means to resolve root causes. Root Cause Analysis also recommends actions to prevent reoccurrence of an adverse event.