Who is primarily responsible for handling concerns about patient care within a facility?

The licensee plays a crucial role in the overall management and operation of a nursing home, including ensuring the quality of patient care. This individual is legally accountable for the facility and its compliance with state and federal regulations, which encompass all aspects of resident care. They are responsible for making sure that all staff, including nursing staff, adhere to the standards of care and address any concerns that arise regarding patient treatment and safety.

While the attending physician, the director of nursing, and the licensed nurse on duty all have significant roles in patient care, their responsibilities are more focused on specific areas within the healthcare team. The physician manages medical treatments, the director of nursing oversees nursing staff and nursing practice, and the licensed nurse attends to the immediate care of residents. However, it is the licensee who bears the ultimate responsibility for addressing any concerns related to patient care within the facility, ensuring that there are systems in place to manage and resolve issues effectively.