Assistant Director of Nursing

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Job description

The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) works closely with the Director of Nursing (DON) to manage and oversee the nursing department in a healthcare or long-term care facility. The ADON assists in maintaining the highest standards of patient care, ensuring regulatory compliance, supervising nursing staff, and providing support in daily operations. This role is essential in fostering a positive work environment, promoting clinical excellence, and ensuring residents or patients receive compassionate and effective care.

Key Responsibilities:

Nursing Leadership and Supervision:

Assist the Director of Nursing in managing the nursing department, ensuring the provision of high-quality care and adherence to facility policies.
Supervise nursing staff, including RNs, LPNs, and CNAs, providing guidance, support, and oversight of clinical duties.
Assist in recruiting, training, and evaluating nursing staff to ensure competence and professional development.
Serve as a leader and role model, promoting a culture of teamwork, respect, and dedication to patient care.

Resident Care and Clinical Oversight:

Monitor the health status of residents or patients and collaborate with healthcare providers to adjust care plans as needed.
Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of individualized care plans, ensuring that they align with medical recommendations and residents needs.
Ensure that nursing staff follow best practices in administering medications, treatments, and therapies, with a focus on patient safety and care quality.
Respond to medical emergencies and assist in providing care, working with staff to ensure the best outcomes for residents.

Regulatory Compliance and Documentation:

Assist the Director of Nursing in ensuring the facility is compliant with state and federal regulations governing nursing and patient care.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for resident care, staffing, and other regulatory requirements.
Prepare for and participate in regulatory inspections and audits, ensuring that the facility meets or exceeds standards for care delivery.

Quality Improvement:

Participate in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the level of care provided and improving patient outcomes.
Monitor and assess clinical practices, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
Review incident reports, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and assist in developing action plans to address areas of concern.

Staff Development and Training:

Assist in organizing and conducting staff training sessions on clinical care, safety procedures, infection control, and regulatory compliance.
Monitor staff competencies and provide ongoing education to enhance nursing skills and promote professional growth.
Provide mentorship and coaching to nursing staff to improve clinical performance and ensure high standards of care.

Resident and Family Communication:

Serve as a point of contact for residents and their families, addressing any concerns, questions, or issues related to care.
Foster positive relationships with residents and families, ensuring clear communication about care plans, treatment changes, and facility policies.
Assist in family meetings, offering support and guidance on care-related matters.

Collaboration and Coordination:

Collaborate with other departments, including administration, therapy, and dietary teams, to ensure holistic and coordinated care.
Participate in interdisciplinary care team meetings, providing nursing insight to help develop and implement care strategies.
Assist the Director of Nursing in managing daily operations and filling in for them during absences.
Education: Associates degree in Nursing (BSN) required; a Bachelor's or Masters degree in Nursing or Healthcare Administration is preferred.
Licensure: Active Registered Nurse (RN) license.
Experience: Minimum of 5 years of nursing experience, with at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or leadership role, preferably in a long-term care or healthcare setting.
Skills:
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Excellent clinical nursing knowledge and skills.
In-depth understanding of healthcare regulations, compliance standards, and best practices in nursing.
Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

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