Study: Nurse leader training key to nursing home quality

Strong nursing leadership at the director of nursing level is critical to nursing home quality, according to an article published in Research in Gerontological Nursing. Often, the nurse with the most clinical experience assumes the director of nursing role when it becomes available. However, directors of nursing should have formal education, training or certification in gerontology; human resources management; communications and interpersonal skills; and budget management skills. Strategic planning and ability to navigate the complex regulatory environment also are important. Long-term care organizations should emphasize succession planning. A promising option is to promote an experienced nurse gradually to higher-level management positions. (McKnight’s Long-term Care News article, 9/27/25)