A Nurse Administrator is an advanced care nurse who wears many hats, this nurse may be a manager, director or CEO of a healthcare organization. Nurse Administrators have experience and knowledge to lead an organization, keep staff performance at peak level and patients safe. Nurse administrators are needed in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and other health care facilities. These nurses have a vision for their healthcare facility and direct staff members in positive ways to fulfill that vision. Nurse administrators help to organize finances and regulate organization growth.
Nurse administrators usually have many years of experiences before taking on their present role. They most likely have worked as staff nurses in the past and understand their roles and responsibilities. Nurse Administrators hold leadership position at an organizational level and oversee the entire nursing staff at their place of work. They are active participants in updating policies and procedures; and update them when needed. Nurse administers are familiar with organizational developments and employee relations. They are well versed in legal and ethical issues and address problems concerning these issues at their health institution when they arise.
Qualities of a Nurse Administrator
Nurse administers should have good leadership skills and abilities; and should never be afraid of change. Healthcare is always changing and is in need of nurse administrators who can adapt to new delivery methods of health care. Nurse administrators have to be able to work long hours and to always be ready for emergency situations. They must be top team leaders, have excellent communication skills and the ability to get along with different types of personalities. A Nurse Administrator should have a positive outlook on life which is a reflection on all healthcare staff members.
Education Requirements
Nurse administrator should have a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree and should ultimately attain a Master’s of Science in nursing degree with a concentration in administration. Master’s of Science programs are available as traditional class settings and many online programs. A Master’s program is designed to be completed in 18 to 24 months. There are some accelerated programs which will propel a nurse to this career at a faster rate. After completing a Master’s program, a Nurse Administer can gain certification by testing through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Job Description & Duties
- Supervise staff members.
- Nurse administrators work to achieve an organization which operates in an efficient and safe manner.
- They are responsible for interviewing and hiring nursing staff members for their organization.
- Responsible for recruitment and retention of nurses.
- They implement disciplinary actions when necessary for employees.
- Collaborate with doctors and other health care members.
- Develop policies and procedures.
- Some nurse administer become Vice Presidents of Nursing which hold must responsibility. Vice presidents of nursing are responsible for all staff in nursing departments, including secretaries and administrative personnel. This discipline has to be able to work under high stress and meet tight deadlines.
Job Outlook and Salary
Nurse administrators are among the highest paid nurses in the United States. They make up to 195,000, depending on location and experience. Job outlook for Nurse Administrators is excellent as healthcare is revolving into a new era and needs Nurse Administrators to direct staff and administration forward.
Resources
American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE): http://www.aone.org
