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- Nursing specialties
- Nurse manager
Nurse manager
A nurse manager is in charge of hiring and supervising the nursing staff of a hospital or other healthcare organization.
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Required education
MSN
Managerial
Oversee other nurses and help improve healthcare for all.
Varied
Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.
Fast-paced
React and make decisions quickly in demanding conditions.
Higher salary
Earn more by having advanced skills and responsibilities.
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Independent
Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.
What is the role of a nurse manager?
You’ll use your nursing and business management skills to fulfill many roles, and act as the go between for your nursing staff, doctors, and the organization.
What you’ll do as a nurse manager
Accounting
You’ll manage the budgets and finances related to the nursing staff.
Collaboration
You’ll work with doctors and other hospital staff, coordinate meetings, and assist patients and families.
Documentation
You’ll take care of the managerial details, including medical health records, recruitment, and disciplinary actions.
Management
You’ll be the liaison between interdisciplinary teams and nursing staff, and supervise nursing-related operations within an organization.
Where you’ll work as a nurse manager
Nurse managers work in a variety of settings, including:
- Ambulatory care centers
- Hospitals
- Long term care centers
How to become a nurse manager
Get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), taking business courses or pursuing a double major, or minor, in business.
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining experience in clinical management.
Get a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Masters in Healthcare or Business Administration (MHA/MBA).
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) offers advanced courses that will help you develop new skills and move into specialized roles.
Get Certified in Executive Nursing Practice or pass your Certified Nurse Manager and Leader exam through the American Organization of Nurse Executives.
You’re ready to work as a nurse manager!
Nurse manager career resources
Become a member of a nurse manager organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL)
American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL)
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