Happy doctor leading a team of healthcare workers at the hospital

Nursing Management

Learn More about Nursing Management

Nurse managers help patients by managing the nurses who care for them. These types of nurses supervise employees and evaluate their job performance and are largely responsible for staff recruitment as well as retention.

Along with consistently working with nurses, they also collaborate with doctors on patient care activities and assist patients and their families. Nurse managers conduct administrative work and handle patients’ medical records, department budgets, and disciplinary actions against employees.

Nurse managers are also expected to know the rules and regulations of each hospital unit. As the health care industry evolves, nurse managers are taking on more responsibilities and new management opportunities are rising. Nurse managers are qualified to hold positions as patient care unit coordinators, nurse case managers, senior managers, nurse unit managers, and assistant nurse managers.

Nurses in this type of leadership position must possess strategic management skills in order to establish quality patient care as well as clinical capability across all aspects of health care.

Preparation Path

Earn your BSN (courses in business or a business double major/minor is recommended)

Many manager positions require a master’s degree; you may consider earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a dual degree such as a master’s in health care/business administration

Pass the NCLEX and become an RN

Pass your nurse management certification exam through the American Organization of Nurse Executives

Become a CNM

Typical Tasks

  • Supervising and recruiting nurses
  • Collaborating with doctors
  • Assisting patients and their families
  • Managing finances
  • Overseeing paperwork like medical records and disciplinary actions

Employment Settings

  • Hospitals
  • Ambulatory care centers
  • Long-term care centers
  • Medical centers
  • Community clinics

Annual Salary Range

$51,500 – $128,500

Certification

RN, Certified Nurse Manager (CNM)

Education Requirements

BSN

Ready to begin your journey to becoming a nurse manager?