THE WARD MANAGER CONCEPT. IS IT FEASIBLE AND DESIRABLE IN A MILITARY HOSPITAL.

The ward manager concept is regarded as both feasible and desirable in the military hospital. It should help alleviate nursing staffing problems, improve management of the nursing unit, and enhance patient care. It is recommended that a medical administrative supervisor be placed in the position of ward manager on each ward of a military hospital. Should the size andor activity of a ward not warrant such a position, this person could then be utilized in the capacity of floor manager by overseeing two or more wards as the workload dictates. This person should be assisted by as many medical administrative specialists or apprentice medical administrative specialists administrative clerks as needed to accomplish the administrative functions of the nursing units. In determining the proper number, consideration must be given to staffing these units during the day and evening shifts seven days per week. This ward manager position is not intended to replace the head nurse, staff nurse or wardmaster. It is felt that by relieving these people of their administrative responsibilities, additional time could be alloted for nursing.