Federal Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

Who typically makes up a Quality Assurance Committee in a nursing home?

1. Administrator and nursing staff

2. DON, a physician, and 3 other staff members

3. Social worker and dietary staff

4. Maintenance and cleaning staff

The correct answer is: DON, a physician, and 3 other staff members

The Quality Assurance Committee in a nursing home is typically composed of individuals who have a significant understanding of resident care and the regulatory requirements that impact the facility. The inclusion of the Director of Nursing (DON) and a physician is crucial because they bring clinical expertise and insights into care quality and safety. Furthermore, the addition of three other staff members provides a diverse perspective on various aspects of care and operations, ensuring that the committee can effectively evaluate and address quality issues from multiple angles. The role of this committee is to systematically monitor and improve the quality of care provided to residents, making the relevant skills and knowledge of its members vital for the committee's success. Having a varied representation allows for comprehensive discussions regarding practices, resident experiences, and staff performance, which ultimately leads to better patient outcomes. In contrast, the other options involve groups that might not encompass the breadth of expertise required for quality assurance. For instance, while nursing staff is important, a committee may benefit more from a multi-disciplinary approach, which includes a physician’s perspective and the direct involvement of leadership like the DON. Other staff such as social workers and dietary staff play critical roles in nursing homes but might not provide the necessary clinical oversight that would drive quality improvement initiatives effectively. Similarly, maintenance and cleaning staff,