DON Director of Nursing

The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for the overall management of the nursing department and the coordination of resident care services in a long-term care facility. The DON ensures that care is delivered in accordance with state and federal regulations, facility policies, and professional nursing standards. This leadership role involves staff supervision, clinical oversight, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Management:

• Lead and manage all nursing staff including RNs, LPNs, CNAs, and Med Techs.

• Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate nursing personnel.

• Establish and maintain staffing schedules to ensure appropriate coverage.

• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment with open communication.

• Participate in facility leadership meetings and decision-making processes.

Clinical Oversight:

• Oversee development, implementation, and evaluation of individualized care plans.

• Ensure all resident care is delivered according to clinical standards and care plans.

• Monitor residents’ health status and outcomes; lead interventions for changes in condition.

• Collaborate with medical providers and interdisciplinary teams to coordinate care.

• Ensure accurate and timely documentation and medical record management.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance:

• Ensure compliance with all state, federal, and local regulations (e.g., CMS, OSHA, HIPAA).

• Prepare for and participate in state surveys, audits, and inspections.

• Lead Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) efforts.

• Investigate incidents, accidents, or complaints and implement corrective actions.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of nursing home regulations and best practices.

Education & Training:

• Develop and conduct ongoing staff education, in-services, and competency evaluations.

• Promote professional growth and licensure compliance among nursing staff.

• Ensure all staff understand and follow infection control and safety protocols.

Qualifications:

• Current RN license in the state of employment, in good standing

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred; Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) accepted with experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of nursing leadership experience in long-term care or skilled nursing

• Must be IP certified 

• Strong knowledge of federal and state nursing home regulations (e.g., OBRA, CMS)

• Proven ability to manage, lead, and motivate clinical teams

• Exceptional organizational, communication, and critical thinking skills

• Experience with electronic health records (EHR) and care documentation systems

• Current CPR/BLS certification