Which statement describes a feature of the nurse manager's formal role?

• A. They perform only clinical tasks
• B. They disregard organizational goals
• C. They rarely participate in policy decisions
• D. The manager has a legitimate source of power due to delegated authority

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is that a nurse manager’s formal role comes with legitimate authority that is granted by the organization. This authority, or delegated power, allows the manager to make staffing and budget decisions, enforce policies, and drive processes that align with the unit’s and organization’s goals. Because the role is official and assigned, the manager can justify decisions and be held accountable within the organizational structure.

That’s why describing the manager as having a legitimate source of power due to delegated authority best captures a formal leadership feature. It contrasts with doing only clinical tasks, being out of step with organizational goals, or avoiding policy involvement, all of which would misrepresent the formal responsibilities of the position.