Federal Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What managerial function is the administrator engaged in when conducting a national search for a director of nursing?

1. Directing

2. Staffing

3. Planning

4. Controlling

The correct answer is: Staffing

When conducting a national search for a director of nursing, the administrator is engaged in staffing. This managerial function specifically involves recruiting, hiring, and placing qualified individuals into appropriate positions within the organization. In the context of a nursing home, the director of nursing plays a critical role in overseeing clinical staff and ensuring quality patient care, thus making the staffing process particularly vital. Staffing goes beyond just filling positions; it includes identifying the needs of the organization, which in this case entails finding a suitable candidate with the right qualifications and experience to lead the nursing department. This process involves various steps, such as developing job descriptions, advertising the position, interviewing candidates, and ultimately selecting the best fit for the role. In contrast, directing involves guiding and overseeing the staff already employed, ensuring they are performing their duties effectively. Planning refers to setting goals and outlining the steps to achieve them, while controlling is about monitoring performance and making adjustments when necessary. Thus, staffing is the primary function being exercised by the administrator in this scenario.