Position Title: Director of Nursing (DON)
Reports To: Administrator / Governing Body
Position Summary:
The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for overseeing all nursing services and clinical operations within the Congregate Living Health Facility (CLHF). The DON ensures delivery of safe, high-quality, resident-centered care in compliance with state, federal, and accreditation standards. This role provides leadership, guidance, and supervision to the nursing team while collaborating with the Administrator, Medical Director, and interdisciplinary staff to promote excellence in care, regulatory compliance, and operational effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities:
Clinical Leadership & Oversight
Direct and supervise all nursing care and clinical services within the facility.
Ensure compliance with Title 22, CMS, OSHA, and infection control standards.
Oversee assessments, care planning, implementation, and evaluation of resident care.
Review clinical documentation to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and regulatory compliance.
Staff Management & Development
Recruit, hire, orient, train, and evaluate nursing staff (RNs, LVNs, CNAs).
Establish work schedules to ensure adequate staffing levels at all times.
Provide ongoing education, competency validation, and in-service training.
Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Develop, implement, and monitor nursing policies, procedures, and protocols.
Lead quality improvement initiatives and corrective action plans.
Monitor resident outcomes, incidents, and infection control trends.
Prepare for and participate in state surveys, audits, and accreditation inspections.
Resident Advocacy & Family Relations
Ensure individualized care that meets residents’ physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs.
Serve as a liaison between residents, families, and clinical staff.
Address and resolve resident/family concerns promptly and professionally.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with the Administrator, Medical Director, therapists, and interdisciplinary team.
Participate in care conferences, utilization reviews, and governing body meetings.
Provide regular updates to leadership regarding nursing performance, staffing, and compliance.
Qualifications:
Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in California (required).
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) required; Master’s Degree in Nursing or Healthcare Administration preferred.
Minimum 3–5 years of progressive nursing leadership experience (DON, ADON, Nurse Manager, or similar role).
Experience in sub-acute, congregate living, skilled nursing, or long-term care strongly preferred.
In-depth knowledge of Title 22, CMS regulations, infection control, and quality management.
Strong leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Working Conditions:
Full-time, exempt leadership role.
Requires flexibility in schedule, with potential for evening, weekend, and on-call responsibilities.
Work performed in both clinical and office settings.
