Final answer:
Three new infusion pumps at a cost of approximately $1500 each would be included in the capital budget, as they are significant, long-term investments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse manager planning to request three new infusion pumps at a cost of approximately $1500 each would typically include this item in the capital budget. Capital budgets are used for planning expenditures on items that will be used over multiple years and have a significant cost, typically beyond a certain threshold set by the organization. Items such as infusion pumps, which are substantial investments and have a long useful life, fall squarely into this category. In contrast, the operating budget is intended for recurring or routine expenses, such as salaries and supplies. A strategic budget might involve broader financial planning with long-term goals, and the unit of service budget relates to specific costs associated with units of healthcare delivered. Therefore, the most appropriate budget for this type of expense is the capital budget.