POSITION SUMMARY
DEFINITION
Top expert in a customarily recognized sub-function will have responsibility for a recognized service line or multiple sub-specialty areas. This independent position exists typically to influence organizational direction and effectively direct operations. This is the organizational thought leader, seasoned expert, often called upon to influence the regulatory/legal environment or to drive integration of complex issues or functions across the facility or system. Position is expected to integrate the efforts of others towards achieving a common goal. Hence integration vs. coordination is required. In accordance with the State of California Practice Nurse Act, focus is on planning and direction vs. daily monitoring and supervising. Accountable for leading development of organization approaches in area of expertise (vs. program implementation).
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This class reports directly to the Chief Nursing Officer and is characterized by having management and budgetary responsibility and control of major patient care units. Major function is independent enough with respect to daily operations that intradepartmental autonomy exists within the broader organizational context. Because operations at this level are fairly independent, departmental policies and procedures can be established independently of other units. Impacts day-to-day operations of facility; however, impact is typically episodic or peripheral to the "business of the business" Examples include: legal interpretations, treasury financing, benefit administration.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Possession of Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from an accredited college or university.
Masters Degree preferred.
Experience
A minimum of five years previous responsible experience, which included at least three years of experience in a supervisory or administrative capacity with increasing management skill set and responsibility. Demonstrates solid managerial, administrative, scheduling, planning and budgeting skills.
Licensure/Certification
Possession of a valid license to practice as a Registered Nurse in the State of California.
BLS
ACLS
KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
Knowledge of:
Nursing processes and its application to patient care.
Principles and methods of supervision and training; basic management skills; problem solving techniques.
Exceptional knowledge of managerial theory and its utilization in an acute care setting.
Licensure, accreditation and regulatory requirements.
Medical terminology and hospital routine.
Personnel scheduling, performance evaluations, group dynamics, progressive disciplinary action, teambuilding and conflict management, problem solving and management techniques
Clinical area under incumbent's direction.
Hospital established policies, quality assurance program, safety, environmental and infection control policies and procedures and Nursing Practice Act of the State of California.
Federal, State, and local laws and regulations governing professional aspects of nursing.
Ability to:
Establish policies and procedures for sub-function independently of other units
Identify opportunities for improvement, and guide the implementation of action plan.
Draw upon available resources to accomplish end results but the "how" is typically left to the incumbent to determine or effectively recommend
Learn, follow, and direct compliance with policies and procedures and to develop and direct compliance with unit specific policies, procedures, and standards of care/practice.
Interpret licensure and accreditation standards.
Prepare and maintain concise and complete records and reports.
Monitor critical practice indicators.
Analyze and maintain budget accountability.
Set, communicate, and monitor performance standards and expectations.
Manage time effectively; positively manage change and conflict; make sound decisions by applying productive problem-solving skills.
Use productive group dynamics to achieve teamwork.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers.
Keep abreast of developments in area of nursing specialization.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
Handle stressful situations, including frequent priority changes and workflow interruptions.
Well-developed communication ability, both oral and written.
AGE SPECIFIC COMPENTENCY
Maintains, demonstrates and is assessed on the knowledge and skills necessary to provide for the physical, psychosocial and cultural needs appropriate to the age of the patients served on his/her assigned unit.
