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.

c. Maintenance and serviceability of equipment are also management responsibilities. Equipment must be checked for proper function, inspected for damage or leaks, calibrated, and tested on a regular basis. Local policy dictates what is to be done, but it is the responsibility of the enlisted manager to make sure that it does get done at the proper time and by the appropriate personnel. Much supply and equipment maintenance is done on the "user" level and, again, it is the responsibility of the enlisted manager to be certain that the individuals using the equipment are familiar with the correct procedures for its operation and maintenance.