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A sudden increase in falls occurring exclusively during the night shift suggests that there is a specific factor influencing these incidents during that time. This phenomenon is identified as a special cause, as it deviates from the expected pattern and indicates an underlying issue that may be unique to the night shift.

In quality and safety management, differentiating between special causes and common causes is vital. Common causes are variations inherent in the process that are generally consistent over time, while special causes indicate a specific event or change that has triggered an unexpected outcome. The exclusivity of the falls to the night shift implies that there may be environmental factors, staffing issues, changes in patient acuity, or other distinct elements during that period that are contributing to the increase in falls.

Recognizing this as a special cause allows for targeted interventions to investigate and address the particular circumstances leading to the rise in falls, rather than attributing the issue to general factors that affect all shifts or assuming it may just be coincidental or part of an ongoing trend. Addressing the root cause effectively is crucial for ensuring patient safety and preventing future incidents.