Final answer:
The nurse manager should review the operating budget when considering the approval of staff nurses to attend a national conference, as this budget includes salaries, benefits, and professional development expenses.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse manager approves two staff nurses to attend a national conference, the appropriate budget category to review would be the operating budget. This type of budget takes into account the ongoing expenses of running a department or organization, such as salaries, benefits, and educational development, including conference attendance. The operating budget is distinct from the capital budget, which deals with long-term investments like major equipment purchases, and the supply and expense budget, which covers routine supplies and incidental expenses.
The salaries for nurses and their benefits, which can account for up to 30% of total labor compensation, are major components of the operating costs. These costs, along with other employee-related expenses like training and development, have substantial implications for the operating budget. When the price for nurses' labor increases, it can lead to a decreased quantity demanded of nurse labor by employers, as they seek alternatives such as investing in technology or hiring lower-paid aides.