(a) In addition to the powers set forth elsewhere in this title, the Board may:
(1) Adopt rules and regulations to carry out the provisions of this title; and
(2) Take any action necessary to enable the State to meet applicable federal requirements.
(b) In addition to the duties set forth elsewhere in this title, the Board shall:
(1) Report directly to the Secretary, as the Secretary requires;
(2) Adopt standards for:
(i) Licensure of applicants; and
(ii) Practice of licensees;
(3) Devise examinations and adopt investigative procedures to:
(i) Determine whether licensees meet the standards adopted by the Board; and
(ii) Assure that licensees continue to meet these standards; and
(4) Conduct a continuing study and investigation of nursing homes and nursing home administrators to improve:
(i) Licensing standards; and
(ii) Procedures for enforcing these standards.