Director of Nursing (DON)

Director of Nursing (DON)

Position Overview:

The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for overseeing and managing the nursing services for a senior living community, ensuring high-quality care is delivered to residents while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. The DON leads, supervises, and supports the nursing staff, ensuring that the highest standards of care are maintained in accordance with best practices in geriatric nursing.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Supervision:

• Lead, mentor, and supervise nursing staff, including, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), and other support staff.
• Provide guidance on clinical care, including care plans, medication management, and resident assessments.
• Conduct regular staff meetings, training sessions, and performance evaluations for nursing staff.
• Foster a positive, supportive, and collaborative environment for all staff members.

Quality of Care:

• Ensure that all residents receive individualized, comprehensive nursing care that meets their physical, emotional, and social needs.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate nursing care plans in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team.
• Monitor and ensure the delivery of patient-centered care that prioritizes safety, dignity, and respect.
• Lead initiatives to improve care outcomes and resident satisfaction.

Regulatory Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding nursing and healthcare services.
• Oversee the accurate and timely documentation of resident care, including assessments, care plans, progress notes, and incident reports.
• Prepare for and participate in state inspections, audits, and surveys, addressing any deficiencies identified.

Training & Development:

• Provide ongoing education and training for nursing staff on clinical practices, regulations, infection control, and resident care standards.
• Stay current with industry best practices, trends, and regulatory changes, implementing new standards of care as needed.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., administration, social services, dietary, therapy) to ensure holistic care for residents.
• Communicate effectively with residents, families, and staff regarding care needs, changes in health status, and care goals.
• Act as a liaison between the nursing team and administration, providing regular updates and feedback on operational issues.

Budgeting & Resource Management:

• Participate in the development and management of the nursing department’s budget.
• Ensure efficient use of resources, including staffing, supplies, and equipment.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Lead and implement emergency preparedness protocols related to nursing care.
• Ensure that nursing staff are trained to respond appropriately in emergency situations.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Liscenced Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) with a current, valid license in KY.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master’s in Nursing or Healthcare Administration preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in nursing leadership roles, preferably in a senior living, long-term care, or healthcare setting.
• Previous experience in geriatric nursing or caring for older adults highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and manage a team.
• In-depth knowledge of nursing principles, practices, and regulatory guidelines.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to make critical decisions in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach to care.

Certifications:

• CPR and First Aid certification required.
• [Additional certifications or training may be required based on state regulations or facility policies.]

Working Conditions:

• The Director of Nursing typically works FT hours per week and may be required to be on-call during evenings or weekends.
• Work is primarily in a healthcare setting, with occasional travel for training, meetings, or other professional development opportunities.