In what capacity can a DON serve when there are 65 residents?

A Director of Nursing (DON) typically oversees the nursing staff and ensures the delivery of high-quality care in health facilities. When there are 65 residents, the DON may also take on the role of a Charge Nurse, which involves direct management of the nursing activities on the floor, ensuring compliance with care standards, and addressing immediate patient care needs.

The capacity of serving as a Charge Nurse is a natural extension of the DON's responsibilities and expertise, allowing for both administrative oversight and hands-on involvement in patient care. This dual role can be beneficial in smaller facilities where staffing levels may not allow for distinct separation of these positions. It allows the DON to maintain better oversight of nursing activities while still being directly involved in the daily care of residents.

In contrast, serving as an administrator, financial controller, or maintenance coordinator would not align with the core responsibilities of a DON, which are centered around nursing care and management. These roles require different skill sets and focus areas that are more specific to administrative functions, financial oversight, or facility maintenance rather than direct patient care and nursing supervision.