A nurse administrator is the most senior nurse in a hospital, overseeing the care delivery for patients on all nursing units. Also known as a chief nursing officer or chief nurse executive, a nurse administrator fills an increasingly important role as health care systems evolve.
History
Twenty years ago, the director of nursing (DON) was the most senior nurse in a hospital, responsible solely for nursing care. As hospital leaders gained a better appreciation of the role nurses play in patient outcomes, the DON took on a broader responsibility for all aspects of patient care and assumed the title of nurse administrator.
Functions
A nurse administrator establishes effective patient care delivery systems, ensures continuous quality improvement in patient care, and represents nursing as a member of the senior leadership team when decisions are made.
Hierarchy
The nurse administrator directly supervises nurse managers or directors for individual nursing units. She typically reports to the chief executive officer (CEO) of the hospital.
Skills
A nurse administrator has a sound clinical knowledge base, solid fiscal management skills, and the ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships across the organization
Qualifications
A nurse administrator is a registered nurse (RN), and many hospitals require an advanced degree in nursing (MSN) or business (MBA).
Tags: nurse administrator, patient care, care delivery, most senior, most senior nurse