Problem identification is the first and foundational step in any quality improvement, research, or clinical decision-making process. It involves recognizing, defining, and articulating a specific issue or gap in performance, outcomes, or processes that requires change or improvement.
Problem identification means clearly describing a clinical, operational, or systemic issue that:
Negatively affects patient care, safety, or efficiency
It is based on evidence (e.g., audit data, patient outcomes, staff feedback)
Is measurable and amenable to intervention
Observation of a gap between current and desired performance.
Data collection to confirm the problem (e.g., rates of infection, delays in ICU admissions).
Definition of scope and impact — who is affected, how often, and how severely.
Statement of the problem — phrased, focused, and actionable.
“Patients admitted to the ICU during night shifts consistently report lower satisfaction scores, suggesting a problem with communication and orientation during off-hours.”