What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Nursing Officer position at SageWest Health Care?
The Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) has ultimate administrative responsibility for nursing standards and practices across all areas of the hospital. The CNO provides strategic leadership and oversight of nursing operations, ensuring delivery of high-quality, compassionate, and evidence-based care. This role collaborates with hospital leadership to design and implement clinical programs that drive improved outcomes and operational performance. The CNO is responsible for developing nursing policies, maintaining regulatory compliance, managing nursing resources, and leading performance improvement initiatives.
Essential Functions
- Ensures continuous, safe, and timely nursing care and services
- Establishes nursing standards and practices that comply with laws, regulations, and current professional standards
- Develops and manages nursing services budget, staffing plans, and resource allocation
- Leads hospital-wide Performance Improvement initiatives related to nursing services
- Oversees recruitment, hiring, evaluation, and development of nursing staff
- Participates in strategic planning and leadership committees
- Collaborates with other hospital departments to ensure coordinated patient care
- Prepares for and participates in regulatory and accreditation surveys
- Develops and implements orientation and professional development programs for nursing staff
- Evaluates equipment and supply needs for nursing units
- Represents the hospital in community and professional forum
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
- In-depth knowledge of nursing practice standards and regulatory requirements
- Strong leadership and organizational skills
- Effective verbal and written communication abilities
- Proficiency in budget development and resource management
- Ability to mentor and lead interdisciplinary teams
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Nursing required
- Master’s degree required (MSN or MHA preferred)
Licenses/Certifications
- Current and active Registered Nurse license
Experience
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a Chief Nursing Officer in an investor-owned healthcare organization
- Prior experience with Joint Commission preparation and survey process