DNS is an LVN??

Specialties LTC Directors

Published

Specializes in Critical care, Pediatris & Geriatrics.

At my LTC that I work as a charge nurse, we have our ED, DON, ADON & DNS but shes an LVN. I want to know the difference between the DON and DNS and how can the DNS be an LVN? thanks

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Director of Nursing = DON

Director of Nursing Service = DNS

DON = DNS in our area

???? I'd love to hear of the difference.

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Specializes in LTAC, Wound Care, Case Management.

What function does the DNS serve at your facility? Some LTC facilities have Unit Managers, maybe the DNS is in lieu of Unit Managers which oversees all nursing staff. Just a thought. I'm curious though.

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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

In Massachusetts, an LPN or LVN can NOT be a director of nursing or director of nursing services. Whatever initials you use, the job is the same and to be a DON or DNS you have to be an RN.

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Specializes in LTC, ER, ICU, Psych, Med-surg...etc....

The regulations state the DON/DNS whatever you call it, but the "leader of the nursing department" MUST be a Registered Nurse. She must be something else...I mean not a DON. Maybe she's a Unit Manager or ADON that they just gave a facny title to make the job more appealing. I was an ADON at on facility_ I mean that was my title- actually I was a glorified Unit Manager however, there was no glory....

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ONe can be LPN in Assisted Living,and be the "Director of Nursing Services",never mind that there are no other nurses, lol

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