Administers the nursing program in a hospital department to maintain standards of patient care. Advises medical staff, and administrators in matters related to nursing service. Recommends establishment or revision of policies and develops organizational structure and standards of performance. Interprets policies and objectives of nursing service to staff and community groups. Requires an advanced degree of nursing. Typically reports to top management. Requires RN license. Typically manages through subordinate managers and professionals in larger groups of moderate complexity. Provides input to strategic decisions that affect the functional area of responsibility. May give input into developing the budget.