The QAO is required to observe adherence to the survey protocol no less than how often?

• A. No less than every 6 months
• B. Every month
• C. Once per year
• D. Twice per year

Answer: (A)

The question is about how often the QAO must check that the survey protocol is followed. The phrase “no less than” sets a minimum cadence for monitoring. So, the QAO must observe adherence at least every six months—that means you can do it more often, but you must not go longer than six months without an observation.

Seeing it in terms of minimum frequency helps: monthly would still meet the requirement (it's more frequent than six months), but the baseline the standard defines is every six months. Once per year would be too infrequent to satisfy the minimum, and twice per year matches the six-month interval but is just another way to express the same cadence.