Nursing Manager Career Guide

Looking for a different career guide?

Overview

An RN Nurse Manager is a specialized healthcare professional who holds a leadership role in managing and coordinating nursing staff within a healthcare facility. They play a critical role in overseeing the delivery of patient care, managing nursing operations, and ensuring the smooth functioning of a nursing unit or department. Job functions in this specialty include supervising and evaluating nursing staff, developing and implementing policies and procedures, managing budgets and resources, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, and promoting quality patient care.

Education

To become an RN Nurse Manager, you need to start by earning a nursing degree. The most common path is to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which typically takes four years to complete. Nursing programs are offered by universities, colleges, and vocational schools. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, and clinical rotations. After completing the educational program, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed RN.

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

To apply for a position as a Staff or Travel Nursing Manager, certain requirements must be met. These typically include having an active RN license from the state in which you plan to practice. Many employers also require or prefer a certain level of experience in a leadership or management role in nursing, such as a charge nurse or assistant nurse manager position. Additionally, pursuing certification in nursing administration or healthcare management can enhance your qualifications and increase your chances of securing a nurse manager role. Certification options include the Nurse Executive, Advanced (NEA-BC) credential offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) designation offered by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL).

State licenses process and requirements

All 50 states require state licensure to become a professional nurse. Review the step-by-step process to obtain or renew your RN license in each one.
Select
A stethoscope held in one hand

Skills

To succeed as an RN Nurse Manager, you need a combination of knowledge, hard and soft skills, and abilities. A strong clinical background and a comprehensive understanding of nursing practices and procedures are essential. Leadership and management skills are crucial for effectively supervising nursing staff, promoting teamwork, and ensuring efficient operations. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are vital for interacting with patients, families, staff members, and other healthcare professionals. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are necessary for making decisions, managing conflicts, and addressing issues that may arise within the nursing unit. Additionally, organizational skills and attention to detail are important for managing budgets, allocating resources, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Thousands of healthcare jobs in
your pocket.

4.8

13.6k Ratings

4.4

1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

RN Nurse Managers have a wide range of responsibilities associated with their role. They are responsible for supervising and evaluating nursing staff, including hiring, training, and performance management. They develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure safe and quality patient care while also ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. RN Nurse Managers collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and administrators, to develop and implement strategic plans for the nursing unit. They manage budgets, allocate resources, and monitor productivity and efficiency within the unit. Additionally, they provide guidance and support to nursing staff, promote professional development and foster a positive and collaborative work environment.

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Nursing Manager
$2,083-3,828/week

The average salary for a Nursing Manager is $2,933.86 per week.

Last updated on February 3, 2025. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming an RN Nurse Manager offers a range of benefits and challenges. Some advantages of this profession include the opportunity to lead and influence nursing practice, make a positive impact on patient outcomes, and contribute to the overall functioning of a healthcare unit or department. RN Nurse Managers often have a higher level of responsibility and authority, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and potential for career advancement. The role also offers the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities and clinics. However, there are also challenges to consider. RN Nurse Managers may face increased workload and responsibilities, including managing staff dynamics, addressing conflicts, and dealing with challenging situations. The role can be demanding, requiring strong leadership skills, effective time management and the ability to balance administrative tasks with patient care responsibilities.

Becoming an RN Nurse Manager requires a solid educational foundation, nursing licensure

Was this page helpful?

Nursing Manager Jobs


View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Manager
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Manager

  • Staten Island, NY
  • Cross Country Nurses
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$4,880/week

Posted Today
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Manager
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Manager

  • Staten Island, NY
  • Host Healthcare
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$4,836/week

Posted 4 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Manager
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Manager

  • Staten Island, NY
  • Supplemental Health Care
  • 5x8 hrs, Days
  • Referral Bonus

$4,777/week

Posted 2 days ago
View job details for Travel Nurse RN - Manager, Long Term Care
Travel Contract

Travel Nurse RN - Manager, Long Term Care

  • Juneau, AK
  • Medical Solutions LTC
  • 5x8 hrs, Days

$4,469/week

Get alerts about new jobs

Be the first to know about new jobs for Nurse Managers.

Some of the content on this page was enhanced using artificial intelligence.

Join over 1 million healthcare workers that are getting a head start with Vivian.

Join Vivian
A group of healthcare professionals.