An external quality consultant provides objective expertise to guide decision-making, particularly when internal stakeholders have conflicting views. Their role is to assess the organization’s context and provide recommendations, not to make final decisions or advocate for a specific choice without evidence.

Option A (Uncover other opportunities for improvement within the facility): While a consultant may identify additional improvement areas, this is not their primary role in the context of evaluating certifications. Their focus should be on the specific task of assessing certification relevance and readiness.

Option B (Support the CQO’s choice for alternative certification): A consultant’s role is to provide an unbiased evaluation, not to simply endorse the CQO’s preference. This option conflicts with the principles of objective consulting.

Option C (Evaluate the facility’s needs, goals, and stakeholder input): This is the correct answer. NAHQ CPHQ study materials emphasize that external consultants should conduct a thorough, objective assessment of the organization’s needs, strategic goals, and stakeholder perspectives to determine the appropriateness and feasibility of certifications (e.g., Magnet, Baldrige). This ensures alignment with organizational priorities and readiness.

Option D (Determine the final certification selection): Consultants provide recommendations but do not have the authority to make final decisions, which typically rest with organizational leadership (e.g., CQO, executive team).