Question 1

Charge Nurse vs. Nurse Manager

Accepted Answer

A charge nurse provides patient care and also has administrative responsibilities, while a nurse manager focuses more on administrative duties.

A charge nurse is a registered nurse who oversees a department of nurses. They require clinical and managerial skills to care for patients while also providing guidance and leadership to other nurses who are working with patients. This can be a static, full-time position in some health care facilities, or it may rotate among nurses by shift.

Question 2

How do I become a nurse manager?

Accepted Answer

To become a nurse manager, you typically need a college degree, certification, and experience. Most employers ask for a bachelor's degree in nursing. It would be advantageous to also take business courses. Also, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to earn your nurse license.

Question 3

How long does it take to become a nurse manager?

Accepted Answer

It takes about six to seven years to become a nurse manager.

Typically, you need a bachelor's degree in nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse before you can be considered for a managerial position. That time is usually about four years. Also, you need to gain clinical nursing experience, usually at least three years, before you're qualified.

Question 4

How much do nursing managers get paid?

Accepted Answer

Nursing managers get paid around $80,000 per year or about $38.51 hourly.

On the lower end of the salary range, they may only make around $61,000. On the higher end, they can earn an average salary of $104,000. As most jobs go, factors like location, company, and experience can determine your pay.

Question 5

What is the difference between a charge nurse and a nurse manager?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a charge nurse and a nurse manager is the level of responsibility and leadership.

Nurse managers are the liaisons between upper management and nurses on the floor. They coordinate not only nurses but others in their unit, such as doctors and support staff. They may also handle more administrative duties such as overseeing budgets and handling internal communications across departments.

Question 6

Who is above a nurse manager?

Accepted Answer

Upper management nurses like directors and chief officers are above nurse managers.

At the top of the typical hierarchy in nursing is the chief nursing officer (CNO) or also known as the chief nursing executive (CNE). This person is responsible for all nursing services across the hospital or healthcare unit and reports to the CEO.

Question 7

How much do nurse managers make?

Accepted Answer

Nurse managers make around $80,000 per year or about $38.51 hourly.

On the lower end of the salary range, they may only make around $61,000. On the higher end, they can earn an average salary of $104,000. As most jobs go, factors like location, company, and experience can determine your pay.

Question 8

What should a nurse manager put on a resume?

Accepted Answer

A nurse manager should put all relevant work experiences and education in healthcare and nursing on a resume. From here, you will organize and describe this information to make it as relevant and compelling as possible.

Question 9

What skills do nurse managers need?

Accepted Answer

The skills that nurse managers needs include leadership, medical terminology and diagnoses, communication skills, and technology. All of these skills are considered essential for performing the role of a nurse manager.

Frequently asked questions about nurse managers

Questions about becoming a nurse manager