What is a key component measured by the risk priority number (RPN) in failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)?

The risk priority number (RPN) in failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is calculated by assessing three key components: severity, occurrence, and detection. The severity of mistakes, which corresponds to the potential impact of a failure, is particularly critical because it quantifies the seriousness of the consequences if a failure occurs. In FMEA, the severity rating helps prioritize which risks need to be addressed first based on how detrimental they could be to patient safety or operational effectiveness.

The other listed components, while important in their own right, do not directly relate to the RPN calculation in the context of identifying and mitigating risks in healthcare systems. The focus on the severity of mistakes directly aligns with the purpose of FMEA, which seeks to enhance safety and quality through systematic evaluation. Therefore, prioritizing the severity of potential failures is essential for effective risk management in healthcare settings.