While there are many methods of conducting a tracer, following is one ten-step approach.
- Identify an individual or process to trace
- Create questions you want to answer in the tracer process and keep these in mind when performing the tracer (As previously mentioned, this isn't always necessary, but it can be very helpful in planning how to perform the tracer)
- Trace the individual's care or process from start to finish. Let the particulars of the traced situation guide you in choosing what aspects to explore
- Explore the connections between elements of care or processes
- Identify holes in care delivery or other processes
- Use tracer methodology as an opportunity to educate staff participating in the process
- Document findings
- Perform other tracers to confirm findings
- Consider how to address identified holes
- Implement plans to improve processes and conduct tracers to verify the success of those plans