Federal Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

When a nurse practitioner with higher qualifications gives orders in the hallways, how should the director of nursing feel?

1. Secure in their position

2. Supportive of the actions taken

3. Undermined

4. In agreement with the orders

The correct answer is: Undermined

When a nurse practitioner with higher qualifications gives orders in the hallways, the director of nursing may feel undermined because it can suggest a challenge to their authority and role within the facility. The director of nursing is typically responsible for the overall management and leadership of nursing staff, including the delegation and oversight of patient care. If a nurse practitioner, regardless of their qualifications, is issuing orders publicly in a manner that bypasses established communication protocols, this could create feelings of insecurity about their position and authority. In a well-coordinated healthcare environment, communication and collaboration are crucial. The director of nursing would ideally expect any orders to be communicated through proper channels to maintain clarity and ensure that all staff, including nurses and nurse practitioners, operate within their defined roles. This incident may lead to concerns regarding teamwork, respect, and the overall hierarchical structure of the nursing team, which is vital for effective patient care and staff morale.