A family is keeping vigil at a critically ill patientÔÇÖs bedside. The nurse speaks with the family members and states she is referring them to the hospital social worker, who will work with the family. What role is the nurse assuming through this action?

The correct answer is A: Manager. The nurse is assuming a managerial role by coordinating care for the family through the hospital social worker. As a manager, the nurse is organizing resources (such as the social worker) to meet the family's needs. This involves planning and overseeing the family's care, which aligns with the responsibilities of a manager in a healthcare setting. The other choices are incorrect because the nurse is not simply leading, being passive (laissez-faire), or following in this scenario. The nurse is taking on a proactive role in coordinating care, making choice A the most appropriate answer.