Role as Manager of Care
The practice of a graduate from an associate
degree nursing program is characterized by collaboration, organization, delegation,
accountability, advocacy, and respect for other health care workers. As a manager of care,
the nurse with an associate degree provides and coordinates care for a group of clients
who have health care needs.
In organizing nursing care, the nurse may delegate aspects of care to
licensed and unlicensed personnel commensurate with their educational backgrounds and
experience. The nurse is accountable for care delegated to other workers and for knowing
legal parameters of their practice as well as their roles and responsibilities.
Consultation with other members of the health care team is initiated when the situation
encountered is beyond the nurse’s knowledge and experience. The nurse participates in
evaluation of the client care delivery system, contributes to change, and promotes an
environment that fosters team relationships.
The nurse is manager of care in acute and long-term care settings where
policies and procedures are specified and guidance is available.
To be competent in the role as a manager of care, the nurse must
possess the knowledge and skills necessary to make decisions regarding priorities of care,
to delegate some aspects of nursing care and direct others, to efficiently use time and
resources, and to know when to seek assistance. Supporting this knowledge is an
understanding of the principles of client-care management, communication and delegation,
legal parameters of nursing practice, and roles and responsibilities of members of the
health care team.
(National League of Nursing)
