Job Description of the Nurse Shift Supervisor

Hospitals provide 24/7 care to patients, and there are always nurses on duty to provide direct patient care. Any time of the day or night, bedside nurses can call upon a nurse shift supervisor for assistance or advice.

Types

A nurse shift supervisor is responsible for designated nursing units on a particular shift. A nurse shift supervisor in one hospital, for example, may cover only critical care units. His colleague in another hospital may be accountable for all inpatient nursing units.

Functions

Some shift supervisors are clinical supervisors who address patient-care issues. Others are administrative supervisors who deal with staffing issues. Many shift supervisors combine clinical and administrative roles.

Relationships

A nurse shift supervisor is many things to many people: a mentor and educator for nurses, a problem-solver for physicians and other hospital staff, and an advocate for patients and families.

Hierarchy

The nurse shift supervisor oversees bedside nurses, is a colleague to unit-based nurse managers, and reports to a nursing administrator.

Skills

A nurse shift supervisor needs a sound clinical knowledge base, excellent time management and great interpersonal skills. Many hospitals require specific certification, such as one in ACLS (advanced cardiac life support).

References

• Career Planner