Who is primarily responsible for the safety and well-being of residents in a nursing facility?

The nursing facility administrator holds the primary responsibility for the safety and well-being of residents in a nursing facility. This role encompasses overseeing the overall operations of the facility, including ensuring compliance with health regulations, implementing safety protocols, and providing a safe environment for both residents and staff. The administrator manages resources, designs policies related to resident care, and ensures that the facility meets both state and federal standards.

While the nursing staff and medical director play crucial roles in delivering direct patient care and medical oversight, respectively, the administrator is accountable for the broader organizational aspects that facilitate safe and effective care. State regulators have the authority to enforce laws and regulations but are not involved in the day-to-day operations or direct oversight of resident safety in facilities. Thus, the administrator is central to maintaining high standards of care and safety within the nursing home setting.