Director of Nursing
General Description:
The Director of Nursing (DON) at Caring Health Center will lead and manage the nursing department, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care and adherence to best practices within our community health center. The DON will oversee clinical operations, staff development, and patient care coordination, fostering an environment of excellence in nursing practice. The ideal candidate will possess a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and have a robust background in nursing leadership and community health.
Reports to: Chief Nursing Officer
Supervises: Nurses: Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Medical Assistants, Clinical Case Managers (led by CNO)
Status: Exempt
Qualifications:
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited institution.
- Active and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in [State].
- Minimum of 5 years of nursing experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership or management role.
- Strong knowledge of nursing practices, healthcare regulations, and quality improvement methodologies.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and adapt to a dynamic healthcare environment.
- Experience in community health settings is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to work in fast-paced environment
- Prior experience and knowledge of Quality and Performance Improvement Concepts, methodologies, and activities.
- Reliable and professional in behavior and appearance.
- Strong interest in addressing the healthcare needs of low-income or medically underserved populations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Management:
- Oversee daily operations of the nursing department, including staff management, patient care coordination, and quality assurance to include 24 hour accountability in collaboration with CNO.
- Develop and implement nursing policies, procedures, and protocols in alignment with organizational goals and regulatory standards.
- Recruit, train, and mentor nursing staff, promoting professional growth and ensuring compliance with licensing and certification requirements.
- Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to nursing staff.
- Cooperate in implementing administrative initiatives such as those related to ensuring the capture of all revenues/billings and site audits by commercial insurers or government agencies.
- Meets regularly with CNO and with Leads in the department on matters relevant to the scope of responsibilities.
- Patient Care and Quality Improvement:
- Ensure high standards of patient care through continuous monitoring and evaluation of nursing practices and patient outcomes.
- Implement and manage quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient safety and care quality.
- Address patient care concerns and complaints in a timely and effective manner.
- Participates in monthly Quality Improvement meetings, activities, and serves as team leader
- Assists in the development of QI/PI and Risk Management programs and related measurement tools with Nurse Managers and CNO.
- Assists with identification and structure of work flow issues as they relate to improved process and increased quality outcomes.
- Assists in reporting of data and monitoring to Federal, State, Local and/or funders as needed.
- Participates with Nurse Managers and CNO to direct training for compliance with regulatory requirements, health education, and prevention services to staff.
- Participates with Nurse Managers and CNO in the proper planning of orientation for new employees.
- Perform other job-related duties as required or assigned.
- Collaboration and Communication:
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals and departments to coordinate patient care and improve overall health services.
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and community stakeholders to address needs and promote health education.
- Represent the nursing department in meetings with senior management, regulatory agencies, and other external organizations.
- Compliance and Documentation:
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including healthcare laws and safety standards.
- Oversee accurate and timely documentation of patient care and nursing practices.
- Strategic Planning:
- Contribute to the development and execution of the community health center’s strategic plan.
- Analyze data and trends to inform decision-making and improve nursing services.
Working Conditions
- This position requires light physical effort. It requires handling objects up to 10 pounds or some standing and walking.
- This position requires the ability to use a computer workstation.