Job Description
Job DescriptionJob Description: Director of Nursing (DON)Position Title: Director of NursingDepartment: Nursing ServicesReports To: AdministratorFLSA Status: Exempt (Salary)Position Summary
The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and operation of the Nursing Services Department in a long-term care facility. The DON ensures the delivery of high-quality resident care in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including CMS guidelines, while promoting a culture of safety, accountability, and excellence.
Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Management
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Direct, supervise, and evaluate all nursing personnel
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Develop staffing plans to ensure appropriate coverage and acuity-based care
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Foster a positive work environment and promote staff retention
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Participate in recruitment, hiring, orientation, and ongoing training
Clinical Oversight
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Ensure delivery of quality nursing care to all residents
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Oversee care planning process and interdisciplinary collaboration
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Monitor infection control practices and clinical outcomes
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Ensure proper documentation and adherence to standards of care
Regulatory Compliance & Survey Readiness
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Maintain compliance with all CMS, federal, and state regulations
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Lead facility preparation for state and federal surveys
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Develop and implement Plans of Correction (POC) when necessary
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Monitor and address compliance issues, including F-tags
Quality Assurance & Performance Improvement (QAPI)
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Lead QAPI initiatives and performance improvement efforts
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Analyze clinical data, trends, and quality indicators
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Implement corrective actions to improve resident outcomes
Staff Development & Education
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Ensure ongoing education and competency of nursing staff
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Conduct performance evaluations and disciplinary actions as needed
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Promote leadership development within the nursing team
Resident & Family Relations
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Address concerns and grievances related to nursing care
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Promote resident rights, dignity, and person-centered care
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Collaborate with families and interdisciplinary team members
Operational Responsibilities
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Manage nursing department budget and resources
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Ensure appropriate use of supplies and equipment
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Participate in facility committees and leadership meetings
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Maintain adequate staffing levels and schedule coverage
On-Call Responsibility
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Participate in on-call rotation and respond to facility needs as required
✅ Minimum Qualifications
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Current, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in Tennessee.
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Minimum [2–5] years of nursing leadership experience (preferably in LTC/SNF)
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Strong knowledge of long-term care regulations and survey process
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Demonstrated leadership, communication, and organizational skills
⭐ Preferred Qualifications
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Prior experience as Director of Nursing or Assistant DON
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Experience with CMS quality measures and Five-Star program
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Preferred BSN or advanced nursing degree
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Strong understanding of clinical operations in long-term care
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Ability to lead teams and manage multiple priorities
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Knowledge of infection control, documentation standards, and risk management
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Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills
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Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Physical Requirements
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Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility
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Ability to lift, push, or pull up as needed
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Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations
Work Environment
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Long-term care setting with frequent interruptions
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Exposure to infectious diseases and healthcare-related hazards
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Requires flexibility in schedule, including weekends and on-call
Compliance Statement
The Director of Nursing must comply with all facility policies and procedures, as well as federal, state, and local regulations governing long-term care facilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
TN Healthcare and Rehab is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable employment laws.
Come join our team today!
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