Kimbongan, Arlan M.

Benguet State University

Topics: 1. Principles of Planning

2. Characteristics of a Good Plan

Nursing Management Function

/ Nursing Management Process

(Roles of the Nurse Leader and Manager)

Four Function of Management

by Henri Fayol (1841–1925)

Planning (Choose Goals)

Organizing (Working together)

Leading/Directing (Coordinate)

Controlling (Monitor and Measure)

Planning

• Is defined as pre-determining a course of action in order to arrive at a desired result.

•  A basic function of management is a principal duty of all managers.

• It is a systematic process and requires knowledgeable activity based on sound managerial theory

• An integral step in the Nursing Process.

• Means to decide in advance what is to be done.

• Thinking ahead, making future projections.

• Henri Fayol (1841–1925) defines planning as making a plan of action to provide for the foreseeable future.

• The first element of management.

Principles of Planning

1. Planning is always based and focused on the vision, mission, philosophy and clearly defined objectives of the organization.

• Leads to achievement of goals and objectives.

2. Planning is a continuous process.

• Planning is a never ending function due to the dynamic nursing environment.

• Planning never comes into end till the enterprise exist issues, problems may keep cropping up and they have to be tackled by planning effectively.

• Leads to realization of the need for change.

3. Planning should be pervasive within the entire organization.

• Planning encompasses the entire organization covering the various departments, services, and the various levels of management to provide maximal cooperation and harmony.

• Basis of control.• Necessary for effective control.

4. Planning utilizes all available resources• For effective use of available

resources and facilities.• Reduces material wasting.• Cost effective implementation of

achieve goal.5. Planning must be precise in its scope

and nature. • It should be realistic and focused

on its expected outcomes.

6. Planning should be time bound.

• For short or long term basis.

7. Projected plans must be documented.

• for proper dissemination to all concerned for implementation

• for evaluation as to extent of its achievement.

Characteristics of a Good Plan

A well developed plan should be:

1. With clearly-worded objectives, including desired results and methods for evaluation.

2. Be guided by policies and /or procedures affecting planned action.

3. Indicate priorities.

4. Develop actions that are flexible and realistic in terms of available personnel, equipment, facilities and time.

5. Develop a logical sequence of activities.

6. Include the most practical methods for achieving each objective

7. Pervade the whole group.