Planning is a process designed to achieve goals in dynamic, competitive environments. As a new manager, what is the first step you will undertake to develop a strategic plan of action for a congestive heart failure program?

The correct answer is B: Establish a vision and mission statement for the impending change. This is the first step in developing a strategic plan as it sets the direction and purpose of the program. It provides clarity on the goals and objectives to be achieved. By establishing a vision and mission statement, the new manager can align the team towards a common goal, inspire motivation, and guide decision-making.

Incorrect choices:
A: Implement an evidence-based plan of action - This is an important step in the planning process but comes after establishing a vision and mission.
C: Search the environment for its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats - This is part of the strategic analysis phase, which comes after setting the vision and mission.
D: Develop a strategy with an interdisciplinary team - This step follows after setting the vision and mission to create a detailed plan.