Assistant Director of Nursing

Overview: Seeking a skilled and compassionate Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) to support our nursing leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the clinical management of our facility as we continue to grow and improve under new leadership. As an ADON, you will assist the Director of Nursing in overseeing the day-to-day clinical operations, ensuring high-quality care, compliance with state and federal regulations, and supporting the nursing staff in their professional development. This is an ideal position for an experienced nurse leader who is passionate about delivering excellent care and leading a dedicated team in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Clinical Leadership & Support:
  • Assist the Director of Nursing (DON) in managing and overseeing all nursing operations within the facility.
  • Supervise and support nursing staff, including RNs, LPNs, and CNAs, ensuring the delivery of high-quality care.
  • Ensure the nursing team is adhering to care plans, policies, and procedures to meet the needs of residents.
  • Act as a mentor and resource for nursing staff, providing guidance on clinical practices and helping resolve issues as they arise.
• Quality Care & Patient Outcomes:
  • Monitor patient care to ensure adherence to established care protocols and best practices.
  • Assist with the development and implementation of care plans, ensuring that each resident receives personalized care based on their needs.
  • Participate in care audits, quality improvement initiatives, and regulatory compliance efforts.
  • Address concerns related to patient care, working with families, physicians, and staff to resolve issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Staff Development & Training:
  • Assist in recruiting, hiring, training, and evaluating nursing staff to ensure adequate staffing levels and competency.
  • Provide or coordinate ongoing education and training for nursing staff to improve clinical skills, enhance performance, and maintain licensure.
  • Evaluate staff performance through regular assessments and assist in providing corrective feedback and professional development opportunities.
• Regulatory Compliance & Documentation:
  • Assist in ensuring the facility meets all local, state, and federal regulatory requirements, including those established by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
  • Ensure accurate and timely completion of resident records, including assessments, interventions, and outcomes.
  • Support the DON in preparing for inspections, surveys, and audits, ensuring all clinical documentation is complete and compliant.
• Emergency Response & Safety:
  • Assist in the development and implementation of emergency preparedness and safety protocols.
  • Respond promptly to emergency situations, providing leadership and support to nursing staff in crisis scenarios.
  • Ensure a safe environment for residents and staff, adhering to infection control and health safety standards.
• Collaboration & Communication:
  • Foster positive working relationships with physicians, staff, residents, and families to promote effective communication and collaboration in patient care.
  • Assist in managing daily operations by ensuring that nursing services are delivered in an efficient and organized manner.

Report any significant issues, challenges, or updates to the Director of Nursing, and ensure that all concerns are addressed in a timely manner.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Education:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) required.
  • Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of Iowa.
  • Additional certifications in leadership or geriatric care preferred but not required (e.g., Certified Director of Nursing Services - CDNS).
• Experience:
  • At least 2-3 years of experience in a nursing leadership role (e.g., Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, or Clinical Supervisor) within a long-term care or skilled nursing facility.
  • Experience with care planning, staff management, and regulatory compliance.
  • Strong background in clinical nursing, particularly in geriatrics or long-term care settings.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and provide direction in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong knowledge of nursing practices, infection control procedures, and quality improvement standards.
  • Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) and other healthcare software.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, and sit for long periods during shifts.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs or assist in moving and transferring patients.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and kneel to engage with residents and perform nursing tasks.
• Strong auditory and visual acuity for monitoring patient conditions and ensuring proper care.
• Ability to react quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Emotional resilience to manage the physical and emotional demands of nursing leadership, especially in crisis situations.

Joining our team means being part of a facility where your leadership will directly influence the care and well-being of our residents. We provide ample opportunities for professional growth, competitive compensation, and a supportive work environment where your contributions are valued.