3-9.
MANAGING SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT
a. Managing supplies and equipment involves much more than keeping the
storage area neat. The first priority in supply and equipment management is knowing
how to procure the things that are needed. The procurement process involves several
steps. First, requirements must be established. The practical nurse manager must
maintain ward, clinic, or area readiness by knowing what supplies and equipment are
needed for daily operations (to accomplish the mission). The next step is to requisition
the supplies and equipment through the proper channels. In order to do this, the
manager must have a working knowledge of the basics of the supply system. This does
not mean you must be a logistics expert, but you do need to know where to look for
information and whom to see for assistance. When the requested items arrive in your
work place, they must be properly received, inspected, and stored. Additionally,
supplies and equipment must be properly safeguarded against damage and loss,
periodically inventoried and inspected, and properly issued for use. The practical nurse
manager is responsible for the readiness of his or her area of responsibility.
b. Another part of supply and equipment management is maintaining the
associated paperwork and records. Hand receipts must be kept up to date, budgets
controlled, and supply documents noted and filed. Equipment found to be
unserviceable must be turned in or sent for repair. As the manager, the practical nurse
is responsible for accountability of supplies and equipment, whether used, disposed of,
or sent for repair.
MD0910
3-8