The functional model of care is most likely used in which setting?

• A. Home care
• B. Operating rooms
• C. Ambulatory clinics
• D. Extended care facilities

Answer: (D)

A functional model of care organizes staff by task rather than by individual patient, which works best in settings with many residents needing routine, ongoing assistance. In extended care facilities, residents require daily activities help, ongoing monitoring, and a steady stream of repetitive tasks. Having staff members specialize in specific functions—such as bathing, feeding, medication administration, or dressing—helps ensure consistent coverage across shifts and efficient use of resources. This approach supports the high-volume, predictable workload typical of long-term care environments. In home care, care tends to be highly individualized with a focus on continuity with a smaller set of caregivers; in operating rooms, the structure is a highly coordinated, specialized team approach; and in ambulatory clinics, care is time-limited and centered on the individual visit rather than broad, task-based staffing.