Which of the following is a critical function of healthcare managers during a crisis?

Effective communication and coordination among staff is indeed a critical function of healthcare managers during a crisis. In emergency situations—such as natural disasters, pandemics, or any sudden increase in patient volume—healthcare managers must lead their teams by ensuring that everyone is informed, understands their roles, and works collaboratively towards common goals. Clear communication helps to minimize chaos, facilitate timely response, and ensures that patient care is prioritized.

Coordination among staff is vital for resource allocation, treatment strategies, and addressing the evolving challenges that a crisis presents. By fostering teamwork and maintaining open lines of communication, managers can support their healthcare providers in delivering safe, efficient, and appropriate care to patients in need.

In contrast, strictly adhering to original plans may impede the ability to adapt to the rapidly changing dynamics of a crisis. Creating new regulations, while important in certain contexts, typically falls outside the immediate scope of a healthcare manager's responsibilities during an emergency. Focusing solely on financial outcomes during a crisis could undermine the quality of patient care and limit the organization's ability to respond effectively to the urgent needs of the situation.