Missouri State Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

When may nursing personnel perform non-nursing related job duties?

1. When there are 20 or fewer residents

2. Only during a staff shortage

3. In emergency situations only

4. Whenever they choose

The correct answer is: When there are 20 or fewer residents

The correct choice highlights a specific condition under which nursing personnel may temporarily take on non-nursing related job duties. In a nursing home context, when the resident population is smaller—such as 20 or fewer residents—there may be an expectation for nursing staff to engage in tasks outside their typical scope of practice due to the limited number of staff available to manage resident needs. This flexibility allows for continuity of care and supports overall operational efficiency in a smaller facility. This approach is grounded in practical considerations, such as ensuring all responsibilities are met despite the reduced staff size that may not require strict adherence to certain role limitations in a less populated setting. The larger standard facilities typically require specialized roles to adhere to ensure quality care, making this exception applicable in cases of limited resident numbers.