Nursing program Chair

A Nursing program Chair or Nursing Education Manager oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs for nursing staff to ensure high-quality patient care and compliance with healthcare standards. Below is a typical job description :

Job Summary

The Nursing Education Manager is responsible for designing, coordinating, and delivering educational programs to enhance the clinical skills, knowledge, and professional development of nursing staff. This role collaborates with healthcare leadership to align training with organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and evidence-based practices. The manager ensures that nursing education promotes patient safety, quality care, and staff competency.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development : Design and implement educational curricula, including onboarding, continuing education, and specialized training programs for nurses.

Training Delivery : Facilitate workshops, simulations, in-service training, and e-learning modules to meet diverse learning needs.

Competency Assessment : Evaluate nursing staff competencies through skills assessments, performance reviews, and feedback to identify training needs.

Regulatory Compliance : Ensure educational programs meet state, federal, and accrediting body standards (e.g., Joint Commission, ANCC).

Collaboration : Partner with clinical leaders, human resources, and external educators to align training with organizational objectives and industry trends.

Mentorship : Support nurse educators and preceptors in guiding new hires and students during clinical rotations.

Quality Improvement : Monitor the effectiveness of educational programs through outcomes data, staff feedback, and patient care metrics, adjusting programs as needed.

Budget Management : Oversee the education department’s budget, including resources for training materials, technology, and external vendors.

Policy Development : Contribute to policies and procedures related to staff education and professional development.

Technology Integration : Utilize learning management systems (LMS) and other technologies to deliver and track training.

Qualifications

Education : Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) required; Master’s degree in Nursing Education, Healthcare Administration, or related field preferred.

Licensure : Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.

Experience : Minimum of 5 years of clinical nursing experience, with at least 2-3 years in nursing education or leadership roles.

Certifications : Preferred certifications include Certified Nurse Educator (CNE), Basic Life Support (BLS) Instructor, or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Instructor.

Skills : Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.

Expertise in curriculum development and adult learning principles.

Proficiency in educational technology and learning management systems.

Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills.

Knowledge of healthcare regulations and accreditation standards.