05/28/2026
A well-structured CAPA form does more than capture information. It drives the investigation.
Here's what should be in every CAPA record, and why each element matters.
Problem Statement Specific, factual, and scoped. "Documentation error" is not a problem statement. "Batch record for Lot 2024-117 was signed by an unauthorized reviewer on March 4" is.
Immediate Containment Actions What was done right now to limit impact? This section protects product and patients while the investigation proceeds.
Root Cause The verified underlying cause, not the first plausible explanation. Root cause must be supported by evidence, not assumption.
Corrective Action Specific, time-bound, and assigned. "Retrain staff" is not a corrective action. A corrective action names who is being retrained, on what, by when, and how completion will be verified.
Preventive Action What systemic change prevents recurrence? This is the section most CAPAs skip, and the section most 483s cite.
Effectiveness Check How will you confirm the CAPA worked? Define the metric, the timeframe, and the threshold before you close the record.
Your CAPA form is a quality system in miniature. Design it like one.