What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Nursing DON position at South Prairie Memory Care?
Position Title: Director of Nursing
Department: Resident Care
Reports To: Executive Director
Position Summary
The Director of Nursing (DON) is responsible for overseeing all clinical and nursing services within the community. The DON ensures residents receive safe, high-quality care that promotes dignity, independence, and quality of life. This role supervises nursing staff, oversees resident assessments and service plans, manages medication systems, and ensures compliance with Illinois assisted living regulations and community policies. The DON works closely with administration, nursing staff, caregivers, residents, families, and physicians to maintain clinical excellence and regulatory compliance.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Assess and monitor the health and social needs of residents to support individualized quality of life.
- Conduct assessments of new and prospective residents to determine appropriateness for admission.
- Develop and oversee resident Individualized Service Plans (ISP) in accordance with applicable regulations.
- Monitor residents for changes in condition and ensure appropriate documentation and follow-up care.
- Communicate with physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers regarding resident care.
- Educate residents and families regarding dementia progression, supportive care strategies, safety considerations, and care planning to promote comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
- Oversee medication management systems including administration procedures, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
- Ensure appropriate monitoring and documentation related to psychotropic medications and controlled substances.
- Supervise Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Resident Assistants (RA).
- Assist in recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and retention of nursing and caregiving staff.
- Coordinate staff scheduling and ensure appropriate staffing levels for resident care.
- Provide leadership, training, and ongoing support for nursing and caregiving staff.
- Plan, organize, and assist administration in staff orientation, education programs, and ongoing clinical training.
- Participates in an on-call rotation to ensure 24/7 clinical oversight and availability for staff support and clinical concerns.
- Routinely works at least one scheduled floor shift per week to support operations and maintain clinical engagement.
- Monitor infection control procedures and ensure compliance with facility policies and applicable regulations.
- Support a culture of safety, teamwork, and resident-centered care.
Compliance and Training
- Ensure nursing services operate in compliance with Illinois assisted living regulations and facility policies.
- Participate in regulatory surveys, audits, and quality assurance processes.
- Maintain familiarity with medical documentation systems and electronic medical records.
- Organize and hold required meetings, in-services, and continuing education programs.
Position Requirements
- Current License Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of Illinois.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of nursing experience with seniors, preferably in assisted living or memory care.
- Knowledge of dementia care and the needs of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive impairments.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with residents, families, physicians, and staff.
- Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Ability to build rapport with residents, families, and staff.
Salary : $75,000