Director of Nursing

Job Summary

The Director, Med/Surg, is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the medical-surgical department, ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality patient care and operational excellence. This role provides strategic direction, oversees departmental operations, and ensures compliance with healthcare regulations and organizational objectives. The Director fosters a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement while supporting staff development and patient satisfaction.

Essential Functions

• Oversees clinical operations in the medical-surgical department, ensuring that patient care is delivered safely, efficiently, and in alignment with evidence-based practices and regulatory standards.
• Develops, implements, and evaluates departmental policies, procedures, and workflows to enhance patient care outcomes and operational efficiency.
• Collaborates with physicians, nursing staff, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless coordination of patient care across the continuum.
• Manages departmental budgets, staffing, and resource allocation to maintain financial efficiency while meeting patient care needs and maintaining high standards of service.
• Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal healthcare regulations, as well as accreditation and organizational policies.
• Supports the recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing professional development of clinical staff, fostering a culture of mentorship, accountability, and teamwork.
• Monitors key performance indicators and quality metrics, identifying opportunities for improvement and leading initiatives to optimize patient outcomes and departmental performance.
• Facilitates open communication and collaboration between clinical staff, administration, and external stakeholders to address patient care needs and operational challenges.
• Participates in strategic planning and organizational initiatives, contributing to the growth and development of the medical-surgical department and broader healthcare services.
• Responds promptly to patient care concerns, complaints, and incidents, conducting investigations and implementing corrective actions as necessary.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, emerging clinical practices, and regulatory changes, ensuring the department adapts to evolving healthcare environments.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) required
• Master's Degree in Nursing, Healthcare Administration or related field preferred
• 3-5 years of clinical nursing experience required
• 2-4 years of progressive leadership experience in a medical-surgical or acute care setting required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of medical-surgical nursing practices, patient care delivery models, and healthcare operations.
• Strong leadership and management skills, including the ability to mentor and inspire clinical teams.
• Financial acumen in managing budgets, staffing levels, and resource allocation.
• Proficiency in data analysis and quality improvement methodologies to monitor and enhance clinical performance.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to foster collaboration across diverse teams.
• In-depth understanding of healthcare regulations, accreditation standards, and compliance requirements.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to drive innovation and resolve complex operational challenges.

Licenses and Certifications

• RN - Registered Nurse - State Licensure and/or Compact State Licensure required
• Basic Life Support Program (BLS) - American Heart Association required