Nursing co-ordinators and supervisors (NOC 3011)

Head nurses and supervisors support the overall functionality of nursing units by performing some or all of the following duties:

• supervise registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and other nursing personnel
• set up and coordinate nursing services in conjunction with other health services
• make sure quality nursing care is provided and appropriate managerial procedures are followed
• help with the establishment of unit policies and procedures
• do budget planning, manage unit budget and make sure that supplies and equipment are available
• help with human resource management planning (selection, evaluation and professional development of personnel)
• collaborate on research projects related to nursing and medical care and multidisciplinary services
• evaluate patients' needs and make sure that required nursing care is delivered
• may provide direct patient care

Workers in this occupational group typically work 36–40 hours per week. Nurse managers and coordinators generally work in health-care facilities, such as hospitals, clinics and nursing homes.

A number of potential hazards exist in this profession. For example, working in hospitals and clinics can expose employees to infectious diseases, radiation and chemicals. Violent behaviour from patients, particularly those who are suffering from mental illness or acute drug reactions, is also a potential hazard.

The use of computers has increased in recent years, so repetitive wrist strain injuries may occur. Nurse managers and coordinators may also experience stress due to the nature of the work, such as dealing with emergencies or patient medical conditions.

All health-care staff follow strict guidelines to prevent infection and injury. Since workers in this profession rarely provide direct patient care, the risks are minimal.

This is an expanding field, with an annual growth rate above the provincial average due to greater health-care needs of an aging population. A significant number of openings will come from retirements.

Technological changes and government policies will affect this occupational group, and may shift job opportunities from acute care to other patient-care facilities. As well, the increasing complexity of health care will drive the need for more of these positions.

Industry reports that downsizing will likely not occur in the coming years since there has been a constant increase in opportunities over the last 10 years. In addition, the current supply of these workers is low likely because of the extensive experience (three to five years) required to enter these positions.