Nursing Home Administrator Jobs
Perhaps one of the more challenging nursing home jobs around is that of a nursing home administrator. The administrator is responsible for the day to day operations of the nursing home. This involves not only overseeing the health care of residents, but monitoring financial aspects of the home as well. In addition, the administrator must ensure that the nursing home adheres to the health care regulations, as laid down by the state.
The job of a nursing home administrator is multifaceted. It requires a mix of both experience and education. Anyone who wants to secure a job like this must show that they have knowledge of the clinical side of nursing, as well as the business side.
In terms of educational requirements, a candidate must have a Bachelors degree as well as a clinical license. The type of clinical license required is usually a registered nurse certification. The Bachelor’s degree should preferably be in the field of health care administration, although certification in a related field is also acceptable. Knowledge of financial management is also desirable; therefore, additional qualifications in an area such as Business Administration would be an asset. Also, familiarity with medical coding would be beneficial.
In most states, candidates are required to be licensed as a nursing home administrator and this involves taking a state administered test. Once you have passed the test, then you can be certified by the state. Some states also require a nursing home administrator to take part in an additional internship program.
As a nursing home administrator you have to be able to multitask. The care of residents is of course utmost importance, but you must also be able to keep an eye on the work of the employees as well. Due to the enormous amount of paperwork involved, you also need to be very organized. Being able to meet or better yet surpass state regulations is of primary importance, as the state inspectors will make unannounced inspections, in which case you have to be at the ready at all times. It is therefore critical that the state’s patient care and building code standards are upheld, and paperwork is up-to-date.
A friendly and personable disposition is also preferable, because an administrator will have to interact not only with residents, but with their families as well. Remember that you will be approached by families whenever they have questions, concerns, or complaints. So you have to be able to manage stress well, and find ways in which to relieve it, as the job can be quite stressful.
Despite the stress that can accompany them, nursing home jobs, like that of an administrator can be very rewarding. The fact that you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those that are old or in poor health; can be its own reward. The elderly are usually the most vulnerable in society and are often neglected or abused. Therefore, if you have been given the opportunity to offer them good health care and comfort, it can make a significant difference in their lives.
