Which statement best describes general supervision in nursing practice?

• A. The supervisor regularly coordinates, directs, or inspects nursing care and is within reach by being in the building or by phone.
• B. The supervisor must be physically present in the patient's room at all times.
• C. Supervision is only required for physicians.
• D. Supervision is not required for routine nursing tasks.

Answer: (A)

General supervision means oversight that is ongoing but not necessarily in person. The supervisor regularly coordinates, directs, or inspects nursing care and remains within easy reach—by being in the same building or reachable by phone—so guidance and accountability are available as care is delivered. This level allows appropriate delegation to others while ensuring patient safety through timely guidance and intervention when needed. It is not about being physically present in the patient’s room at all times, and supervision is not limited to physicians, nor is it accurate to say supervision isn’t needed for routine tasks; supervision can apply to delegated routine activities with the supervisor available for consultation as needed. For example, a nurse supervisor may review care plans and medication administration records on the unit and be reachable to support staff during rounds.