California Nursing Home Administrator License Practice Exam

When calculating minimum staff hours per week, when can an administrator's time be counted?

1. When they work at least 40 hours per week

2. When they are included on the staffing schedule

3. When providing direct care for residents

4. When they work at least 25 hours per week

The correct answer is: When they are included on the staffing schedule

The correct answer is based on the understanding that an administrator's time can be counted towards the calculation of minimum staff hours per week when they are officially included on the staffing schedule. This inclusion signifies that the administrator is recognized as contributing to the team's overall staffing plan and is actively engaged in the operation of the facility. An administrator's role encompasses oversight of all facility operations, which contributes to the quality of care provided to residents, but this role needs to be formally reflected in the staffing plan to be counted. This reflects the regulatory requirement that ensures there is a clear structure and set expectations regarding staffing levels to meet the needs of the residents. In contrast, counting hours based solely on other criteria such as working a particular number of hours per week or providing direct care may not capture the broader administrative responsibilities that are essential in a nursing home environment. Therefore, being included on the staffing schedule is a critical factor that confirms the administrator's involvement in the operational functioning of the nursing home, justifying their counted hours in the staffing calculation.