These problems may be more difficult to identify. Discrete problems may occur within a system but may only affect a small extent of the entire system.

For example, the problem may reflect an isolated incident or affect one or fewer patients/clients or staff.

Because even relatively isolated problems could stem from a systemic problem, it is imperative that the agency examine all problems carefully to determine whether there is a system failure before assuming the problem is discrete.

When there are minor or few problems within a system, then the violation or deficiency maybe related to a discrete problem, rather than a systemic problem.