So you want to be a Director of Nursing ... now what!

The authors believe that even an experienced DON might need at least two months to adequately adjust and/or professionally realign problematic areas of concern in a new position. This opinion is in direct contrast with Maun (1998). Maun states "If a DON is moving to this job from another similar position, the overall program may take a week, not including any other corporate or facility specific orientations. If a person is taking a DON job for the first time, the process could take two weeks to allow for identifying areas of deficiency." The position of Director of Nursing is dynamic and fluid; it is challenging and exciting. The key to success is communication, forward planning, flexibility and the willingness to grow with the demanding changes in the arena of long term care.