Acute Care Director of Nursing
About the role
The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for the strategic leadership, clinical oversight, regulatory compliance, operational management, and quality performance of the organization's Acute Care Hospital, Swing Bed Program, and Emergency Department. The DON ensures the delivery of safe, high-quality, patient-centered care while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and applicable accreditation standards. The Director of Nursing serves as the senior nursing leader for inpatient and emergency services and collaborates closely with providers, department leaders, quality and compliance personnel, and executive leadership to achieve organizational goals and improve patient outcomes. The DON promotes excellence in nursing practice, staff development, patient safety, quality improvement, and regulatory readiness.
Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership and direction for nursing services within Acute Care and Emergency Department operations.
- Establish nursing department goals, objectives, and performance measures aligned with organizational strategic initiatives.
- Ensure nursing care is delivered consistent with evidence-based practice, organizational policies, and professional nursing standards.
- Serve as a member of the organization's leadership team and participate in strategic and operational planning.
- Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, collaboration, and patient-centered care.
- Serve as the nursing representative for leadership committees and Governing Board activities as assigned.
- Direct and oversee acute care nursing operations.
- Ensure appropriate staffing levels and