Director of Nursing at Heritage Healthcare Consulting in Canton, CT

Position Summary

The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for the overall administration, planning, coordination, and evaluation of nursing services within the skilled nursing facility. The DON ensures the delivery of high-quality resident care that complies with federal, state, and local regulations while promoting resident safety, clinical excellence, and employee engagement. This leadership role oversees all nursing personnel, manages clinical operations, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to achieve optimal resident outcomes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Clinical Leadership

• Direct, supervise, and evaluate all nursing services, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs).
• Ensure delivery of resident-centered care consistent with facility policies and professional standards.
• Monitor clinical outcomes and implement quality improvement initiatives to enhance resident care.
• Oversee infection prevention and control programs.
• Review and address incidents, accidents, medication variances, and resident complaints.
• Participate in resident assessments, care planning, and interdisciplinary team meetings.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including CMS, OSHA, and Department of Health requirements.
• Maintain survey readiness and lead the facility through state and federal inspections.
• Develop, implement, and update nursing policies and procedures.
• Monitor documentation practices to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.

Staff Management

• Develop staffing schedules that ensure adequate coverage and compliance with staffing requirements.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and disciplinary action as appropriate.
• Conduct performance evaluations and support staff professional development.
• Foster a positive work environment focused on teamwork, accountability, and resident satisfaction.

Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement

• Lead Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) activities related to nursing services.
• Analyze quality metrics, infection control data, falls, pressure injuries, rehospitalizations, and resident satisfaction trends.
• Develop corrective action plans and monitor outcomes.
• Participate in risk management activities and investigations.

Budget and Resource Management

• Assist with preparation and management of the nursing department budget.
• Monitor labor costs, staffing utilization, overtime, and agency usage.
• Ensure appropriate inventory and utilization of nursing supplies and equipment.
• Collaborate with administration to achieve operational and financial goals.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Work closely with the Administrator, Medical Director, Rehabilitation Services, Social Services, Dietary Services, and other departments.
• Communicate effectively with residents, families, physicians, consultants, and regulatory agencies.
• Participate in leadership meetings and strategic planning initiatives.

QualificationsEducation

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing within the state of employment.
• BSN preferred; MSN or healthcare administration coursework is a plus.

Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of nursing leadership experience in a skilled nursing facility, long-term care, or post-acute care setting.
• Previous experience as an Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON), Nursing Supervisor, or equivalent leadership role preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with regulatory surveys, quality improvement programs, and staff management.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough understanding of long-term care regulations and clinical standards.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Knowledge of MDS, care planning, infection prevention, and quality assurance processes.
• Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to analyze clinical data and implement performance improvement strategies.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Maintenance of regulatory compliance and survey outcomes.
• Reduction in rehospitalizations, falls, and pressure injuries.
• Nursing staff retention and engagement.
• Resident and family satisfaction scores.
• Infection prevention and control outcomes.
• Achievement of quality measures and clinical benchmarks.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person