Who has the legal responsibility to adopt and implement facility policies?

The governing body holds the legal responsibility to adopt and implement facility policies because it serves as the highest authority in the organization. This body is tasked with establishing the overall mission, vision, and strategic direction of the facility, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and providing oversight for the organization's operations. By adopting policies, the governing body sets the framework within which the facility operates, embedding standards and protocols that guide all levels of staff in carrying out their duties effectively and safely.

While the administrator plays a crucial role in implementing these policies and overseeing the day-to-day operations, the authority and legal responsibility ultimately reside with the governing body. Similarly, while the director of nursing and the quality assurance committee contribute to the development and execution of specific protocols within their respective areas, they do not possess the overarching legal authority to adopt facility-wide policies. Their roles are more focused on execution and compliance within the structure established by the governing body.