What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Nursing position at Stabilize Health, LLC?

Director of Nursing (DON)

Location : Coastal Oaks Recovery, Port Royal, South Carolina

About Coastal Oaks Recovery

Located in the heart of the Lowcountry in South Carolina, Coastal Oaks Recovery is a 72-bed substance use disorder treatment center serving adults aged 18 and older. Nestled on five serene acres near the coastal waters and wetlands of Port Royal, Coastal Oaks provides a tranquil environment for individuals to stabilize and embark on their recovery journey.

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we offer medically monitored detoxification under the direct care of physicians and nurses, supported by a multidisciplinary treatment team. In addition to withdrawal management, our residential treatment services provide a safe and structured environment for 30 to 45 days, ensuring that each patient builds a solid foundation of recovery skills prior to discharge.

Our evidence-based programming includes group therapy, individual counseling, family programming, and specialized care tailored to meet individual needs. With a holistic and experiential approach, we emphasize safety, collaboration, and a patient-first culture that nurtures recovery and wellness for both patients and staff.

Position Purpose

The Director of Nursing (DON) is a key leadership position at Coastal Oaks Recovery, responsible for overseeing all nursing operations, ensuring the highest standards of patient care, staff development, and regulatory compliance. The DON will collaborate with the Executive Director, medical team, and interdisciplinary leadership to enhance nursing services, improve quality outcomes, and support a patient-first culture in substance use disorder and mental health treatment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and Operational Oversight

Plan, implement, and oversee nursing services to align with Coastal Oaks’ mission, policies, and patient care objectives.
Supervise nursing staff, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Behavioral Health Technicians to ensure consistent, high-quality care delivery.
Provide direct leadership and guidance to nursing staff, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and accountable environment.
Develop and maintain nursing protocols, procedures, and best practices specific to substance use disorder treatment.
Ensure nursing staff compliance with Joint Commission, South Carolina DHEC regulations, HIPAA, and 42 CFR confidentiality guidelines.
Oversee staff recruitment, hiring, retention, training, and professional development programs.

Clinical and Patient Care Oversight

Define and maintain the highest standards of nursing care within the facility.

Oversee medication administration, withdrawal management, and medical stabilization protocols to ensure safe and effective patient care.

Monitor patient outcomes and nursing interventions to assess treatment effectiveness and improve clinical quality.

Ensure proper credentialing and competency evaluations for all nursing personnel.

Act as a clinical resource for complex patient cases, including substance withdrawal, co-occurring disorders, and crisis interventions.

Collaboration and Quality Improvement

Work closely with physicians, psychiatrists, therapists, and case managers to coordinate individualized patient care plans.

Develop and implement quality assurance programs to continuously evaluate and enhance nursing performance.

Participate in facility-wide strategic planning, budget development, and operational decision-making.

Ensure a therapeutic and safe environment that prioritizes patient dignity, engagement, and long-term recovery success.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

Maintain knowledge of federal and state regulations, ensuring all nursing operations adhere to Joint Commission, CMS, and South Carolina DHEC standards.

Oversee infection control policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

Conduct internal nursing audits, medication management reviews, and incident investigations, implementing corrective action plans when needed.

Professional Development and Education

Provide ongoing staff education in withdrawal management, trauma-informed care, and best practices in substance use disorder nursing.

Support continuing education opportunities for nurses to obtain advanced certifications in psychiatric, addiction, or detox nursing.

Encourage evidence-based research and process improvement studies that enhance nursing care delivery.

Skills and Abilities

Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills with the ability to manage nursing teams effectively.

Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) systems, nursing documentation, and reporting.

Ability to assess critical medical situations and provide quick, informed decisions to ensure patient safety.

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to educate staff, patients, and families.

Knowledge of addiction medicine, withdrawal management protocols, and behavioral health treatment models.

Ability to manage financial and budgetary aspects of the nursing department, including staffing and resources.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) required; Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN), Healthcare Administration, or a related field preferred.

Licensure / Certification

Current RN license in South Carolina (or eligibility to obtain through Nurse Licensure Compact).

Current CPR and First Aid certification required; additional certifications in Substance Use Disorder, Psychiatric Nursing, or Detox Nursing preferred.

Experience

Minimum of 3 years of nursing leadership experience in substance use disorder treatment, behavioral health, or a related healthcare setting.

Demonstrated success in managing nursing operations, quality improvement initiatives, and staff development.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and lead in a dynamic healthcare environment.

Must be comfortable engaging with patients, staff, and external stakeholders daily.

Work primarily indoors in a temperature-controlled environment.

Why Join Coastal Oaks Recovery?

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we value the critical contributions of every team member. As a Director of Nursing, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals on their recovery journey.

We Offer :

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Opportunities for professional growth and development.

A supportive and inclusive work environment committed to excellence in patient care.

If you are a dedicated nursing leader passionate about making a meaningful impact, apply today to join our leadership team at Coastal Oaks Recovery!

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