Which of the following is NOT a planning type used by nurse managers?

• A. Strategic Planning
• B. Operational/Organizational planning
• C. Project planning
• D. Tactical planning

Answer: (C)

Understanding planning types in nurse management hinges on time horizon and scope. Strategic planning shapes where the department is headed over years, considering the external environment and mission. Operational or organizational planning translates those strategic goals into policies, procedures, budgets, and day-to-day workflows to run the unit smoothly. Tactical planning sits between strategy and operations, detailing specific actions and resource allocations for the near term to implement the strategy.

Project planning, on the other hand, focuses on a single, finite initiative with a defined start and end, limited scope, and specific resources. It is a project-management approach rather than an ongoing planning type used to guide daily operations or long-term direction of the unit. Because of its temporary, scope-limited nature, it’s not considered a core planning type for nurse managers in routine leadership practice. This is why project planning is the best answer.